Zimbabwe Faces Critical African Armyworm Outbreak Amid Climate Challenges
Zimbabwe is experiencing its worst outbreak of African armyworms in 20 years, with the pest affecting the entire country. The government has implemented measures including surveillance traps and pest control chemicals. This outbreak follows significant rainfall after a prolonged drought, resulting in a national state of disaster and substantial losses in corn production.
Zimbabwe is currently facing the most severe outbreak of African armyworms in the past two decades, with reports indicating that the pest has spread throughout the nation. In response to this crisis, the government has established 214 surveillance traps and equipped all districts with appropriate pesticides to combat the infestation. This information was communicated in a statement from the Ministry of Information following a recent cabinet meeting.
This outbreak coincides with the recent rise in above-normal rainfall, effectively ending a drought that persisted for nearly 40 years. The impact of the weather patterns has led to significant agricultural challenges; specifically, Zimbabwe, along with Zambia and Malawi, declared national states of disaster in 2024 due to crop failures attributed to the El Niño phenomenon. Consequently, the Agriculture Ministry reported that approximately three-quarters of Zimbabwe’s staple corn production has been rendered unviable due to these adverse conditions.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe is currently battling a critical African armyworm outbreak, exacerbated by favorable weather conditions that have transitioned from drought to excessive rainfall. The government’s proactive measures include the establishment of surveillance traps and the provision of pest control chemicals. The agricultural sector remains under severe stress, with significant losses in corn production, necessitating national interventions to address food security.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
