## RECOMMENDATION 

The DVS should; 

 Provide adequate budget provisions to ensure that cordon fences are continuously maintained so as to ensure effective control of movement of both cattle and wild animals to prohibited areas thus minimising the risk of an FMD outbreak. 

 Formulate a clear guideline on resource allocation which the Department could use to guide and monitor its resource allocation. 

 Streamline its resource allocation processes such that the limited resources are appropriately allocated taking into consideration, the risk of FMD outbreak, the size and potential demands of the areas to be serviced and demands of the farming communities. 

 Continue exploring (in collaboration with other relevant Ministries and farmers) options of devising an effective long term strategy that will help minimise damage to fences caused by elephants. 

## 4.3 STRENGTHENING OF EXTENSION SERVICES 

According to the FMD Contingency Plan Revision 2007 39 , the most important resource in the prevention of FMD is an informed animal owner, herder or manager. In order for the DVS to realise the objective of early warning contingency for FMD, the plan recommends among others; 

 Regular contact between the extension officer and farmer in order to build high level of confidence and trust that will ensure rapid reporting of disease occurrence at an early stage; 

 Well-planned extension programmes and consultative meetings with stakeholders; 

