Latest African Armyworm Forecast from IRLCO-CSA – 6th Jan 2016

SYNOPSIS:
African armyworm (Spodoptera exempta, Walker) outbreaks were reported from Malawi in Blantyre, Machinga, Salima and Kasungu Agricultural Development Divisions. The Ministry of Agriculture provided pesticides to the affected farmers who undertook control operations. There is high probability that armyworm outbreaks could spread to Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
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CURRENT SITUATION:

Malawi: Low density and sporadic Armyworm outbreaks occurred in Blantyre, Machinga, Salima and Kasungu Agricultural Development Divisions (ADDs). The Ministry of Agriculture provided the pesticide (Deltametrin) and technical advice to affected farmers who carried out control.
Kenya, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe: There were no reports of armyworm outbreak from these Member countries. Monitoring of Armyworm moths using pheromone traps was underway.

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OUTLOOK (Jan 2016 – Mar 2016):

There is high probability that small-scale armyworm outbreaks experienced in Malawi during December 2015 could spread to Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. National forecasting units in Member States are advised to intensify monitoring and maintain vigilance. There will be less chances of Armyworm outbreaks in Kenya as the short rain season comes to an end.
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CREDIT:

This forecast is issued by the International Red Locust Control Organisation for Central and Southern Africa, with thanks to The Director at IRLCO-CSA and contributions by staff of Plant Protection units in its Member Countries. Learn more about IRLCO-CSA