Zimbabwe on locusts high alert

Zimbabwe has stepped up surveillance and preventive measures against African migratory locusts following reports of major outbreaks in neighbouring Botswana and Namibia.

Authorities say the country is on high alert to protect its crops and safeguard national food security amid fears that the swarms could migrate across borders.

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, said the government was closely monitoring the regional situation and had issued warnings to all provinces.

"We have received alarming notifications from our counterparts in Botswana and Namibia regarding their ongoing battles with African migratory locust outbreaks," said Prof Jiri. "Understanding the potential implications, we have immediately issued alerts to all provinces in Zimbabwe to remain vigilant and prepared. Our focus is on monitoring the situation closely and assessing the risks of an invasion into our territory."

Heavy rains in the region have created ideal breeding conditions for locusts, raising fears of swarms spreading further north. Zimbabwe, which suffered a damaging invasion in 2020, is determined to avoid a repeat.

Prof Jiri said the government had already deployed teams to monitor locust activity across vulnerable districts and to train personnel on early detection and control measures.

"We are not just waiting for the locusts to arrive; we are actively mobilising resources and training personnel on locust identification, biology, and management," he said. "It is essential that we equip our teams with the necessary knowledge and tools to respond effectively in case of an invasion."

Zimbabwe is working with the International Red Locust Control Organisation for Central and Southern Africa (IRLCO-CSA) to coordinate regional efforts.

Experts warn that a single swarm of locusts can consume crops meant for thousands of people in a single day - a scenario Zimbabwe is determined to prevent.