Africa: Migratory Pests Threaten Food Security
CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN AFRICA: Member states of the International Red Locust Control Organisation for Central and Southern Africa (IRLCO-CSA) are on high alert for the build-up of migratory pests [armyworms and locusts]as the current weather system increases the prevalence of insects. Visiting IRLCO-CSA director, Mr Moses Okhoba, yesterday said migratory pests were of economic importance as they affected the whole region, greatly threatening food security. The pests can wipe out vast swathes of crops and pastures within a short space of time. Mr Okhoba said the 2015-16 rainfall season characterised with intermittent rainfall could allow the build-up of armyworm and locusts. “Migratory pests are a big danger to the economy if not managed well. Because of climate change, the region has seen an upsurge of pests”, he said.