Locust Infestation Resurgence in Namibia’s Zambezi Region: Government Response Initiated
Namibia’s Zambezi Region faces a resurgence of locust activity triggered by recent rain, prompting monitoring and control measures. Farmers are urged to report locust sightings as the situation poses risks to food security and livelihoods.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform of Namibia has confirmed a new locust infestation in the northeastern Zambezi Region. This resurgence, attributed to recent heavy rainfall, has manifested in both hopper and fledgling stages, raising concerns of a possible second wave of locust activity. Key affected areas include the floodplains near Ibbu along the Chobe River and around 11 constituencies in the region.
Initial reports of the infestation emerged in early February. Since that time, favorable breeding conditions, characterized by ongoing green vegetation, have persisted not only in Namibia but also in neighboring countries such as Zambia, Botswana, and Angola. Farmers are being urged to promptly report any sightings of locust bands or swarms to their nearest Agricultural Development Centre, as declining vegetation may lead to locusts forming mobile groups and potentially migrating northward, complicating control efforts.
In response to the outbreak, the Namibian government has deployed agricultural officers, equipped with vehicle-mounted sprayers and mist blowers, to manage the situation effectively. Ongoing monitoring and control operations are crucial in preventing the further spread of locusts. This current outbreak follows several incidents in recent years, including a significant outbreak in 2020, which impacted over 700,000 hectares in northern regions. The ministry remains dedicated to ensuring food security and the sustainability of rural livelihoods through continuous surveillance and swift intervention measures.
The recent confirmation of a locust infestation in Namibia’s Zambezi Region has raised alarm due to favorable breeding conditions influenced by heavy rainfall. The government is actively responding to this issue with monitoring and control efforts, while farmers are encouraged to report locust sightings. The situation highlights the importance of rapid intervention to safeguard food security and rural livelihoods amid recurring locust challenges in the region.
Original Source: medafricatimes.com
