During a sideline meeting at the G-77+ China summit in Speke Resort, Munyonyo, President Masisi of Botswana pledged support to Uganda’s farmers in tackling foot and mouth disease by developing a vaccine. He assured President Museveni of Botswana’s readiness to assist Uganda in addressing the foot and mouth challenge by creating a purposeful vaccine tailored to Uganda’s needs.
President Masisi proposed a bilateral program for comprehensive collaboration, envisioning a government-to-government partnership to combat foot and mouth disease. He highlighted Botswana’s expertise in drug therapeutics, aligning perfectly with Uganda’s potential with its 16 million cows.
Additionally, President Masisi expressed Botswana’s interest in exploring collaboration in the dairy industry, including the potential export of milk from Uganda to address Botswana’s feed shortage and enhance Uganda’s dairy sector.
President Museveni appreciated Botswana’s support and emphasized the importance of collaboration in establishing a fruitful partnership. He showcased Uganda’s progress in the dairy sector despite historical challenges, highlighting increased milk production from 200 million to 5.5 billion litres annually.
President Museveni also encouraged Botswana to invest in Uganda’s feed manufacturing industry, leveraging locally produced resources such as soya beans, sunflower cake, molasses, and cotton seed.
