Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has stepped up efforts to contain the locust outbreak in the Zambezi Region, with reinforcement teams from six regions deployed to strengthen ongoing control operations.
Deputy Minister Ruthy Masake received and welcomed response teams from Kunene, Oshana, Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Omusati, and Kavango East and West, who have been sent to support the containment efforts. The additional teams arrived with extra vehicles and equipment aimed at ensuring the outbreak is brought under control swiftly and effectively.
Photos: Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water & Land Reform
During her visit to the region, Masake also paid a courtesy call on Zambezi Governor Dorothy Kabula, assuring her that the ministry is implementing all necessary measures to curb the spread of locusts as quickly as possible.
The ministry, through its Directorate of Agricultural Production, Extension and Engineering Services (DAPEES), has activated immediate control measures to manage the situation. These include intensified surveillance and scouting to identify and map infestation hotspots, targeted ground spraying at breeding and feeding sites, and farmer awareness and capacity-building initiatives focused on early detection, reporting, and best pest-management practices.
Currently, three operational teams comprising 13 trained staff members and supported by five vehicles fitted with mounted sprayers are operating from Muyako, Chinchimani, and Masokotwani. A fourth operational team is set to be stationed at Kapani to further reinforce control efforts in affected areas.
The ministry said it continues to work closely with regional authorities, farmers, and other stakeholders, and has urged farmers to remain vigilant and promptly report any locust sightings to the nearest agricultural office.
