Resurgence of Locust Infestation Confirmed in Namibia’s Zambezi Region

Namibia has confirmed a resurgence of locust activity in the Zambezi Region, believed to be caused by heavy rainfall. The outbreak is in hopper and fledgling stages, affecting floodplains near Ibbu and surrounding constituencies. Farmers are urged to report sightings, while the government deploys agricultural officers to mitigate the infestation.

Namibia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has confirmed a resurgence in locust activity within the Zambezi Region due to recent heavy rainfall, affecting both hopper and fledgling locust stages. This situation raises concerns of a potential second wave of infestation. The impacted areas include the floodplains near Ibbu along the Chobe River and approximately 11 constituencies in the region.

The initial report of the infestation emerged in early February. Since then, favorable breeding conditions characterized by abundant green vegetation have persisted not only in Namibia but also in neighboring countries such as Zambia, Botswana, and Angola. Farmers have been encouraged to report any locust sightings to their nearest Agricultural Development Centre. As vegetation dries, locusts may form mobile groups and potentially migrate northward in small swarms, complicating containment efforts.

In response to the outbreak, the government has dispatched agricultural officers equipped with vehicle-mounted sprayers and mist blowers. Ongoing monitoring and control operations aim to mitigate the spread of the locusts. This recent outbreak follows several others in recent years, notably one in 2020 that affected over 700,000 hectares across northern regions. The ministry remains committed to enhancing food security and supporting rural livelihoods through vigilant surveillance and prompt intervention measures.

The locust infestation in Namibia’s Zambezi Region reflects the need for immediate action due to the threats posed by environmental conditions that facilitate locust breeding. With ongoing monitoring and the mobilization of resources, the government aims to contain the spread and protect agricultural outputs. The cooperation of farmers in reporting sightings will be crucial to address this challenge effectively.

Original Source: medafricatimes.com