Namibia Confirms Locust Infestation in Zambezi Region Amid Concerns of Spread
Namibia’s Zambezi Region faces a locust outbreak confirmed by the Ministry of Agriculture, driven by heavy rains. The infestation affects both hopper and fledgling stages, with concerns of migration as vegetation dries. The government has deployed measures to monitor and control the population to ensure food security.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform in Namibia has confirmed a resurgence of locust activity in the Zambezi Region. Triggered by recent heavy rains, the outbreak is currently in both hopper and fledgling stages, raising concerns of a potential second wave of infestation. Affected locations include floodplains near Ibbu along the Chobe River and around 11 constituencies in the region.
Initial reports of the infestation emerged in early February. Since then, favorable breeding conditions, characterized by the presence of relentless green vegetation, have persisted not only in Namibia but also in neighboring countries such as Zambia, Botswana, and Angola. Farmers have been advised to report any locust sightings to their local Agricultural Development Centre. As vegetation dries, locusts may form mobile bands, increasing the likelihood of migration northward and complicating containment efforts.
In response to the outbreak, the government has deployed agricultural officers equipped with vehicle-mounted sprayers and mist blowers. Active monitoring and control operations are currently underway to prevent the further spread of locusts. This situation follows previous locust outbreaks, notably in 2020, which affected more than 700,000 hectares across multiple northern regions. The ministry remains committed to ensuring food security and protecting rural livelihoods through continuous surveillance and quick intervention strategies.
The resurgence of locust activity in Namibia’s Zambezi Region poses a significant threat to agriculture, driven by favorable breeding conditions after heavy rainfall. The government is implementing monitoring and control measures to mitigate the infestation’s impact, calling on farmers to assist in surveillance efforts. Maintaining this proactive approach is crucial to safeguarding food security and livelihoods in the region.
Original Source: medafricatimes.com
