GOVERNMENT has warned that locust swarms are posing a severe threat to the country’s food security as these insects rapidly destroy crops.
According to Central Province Permanent Secretary Milner Mwanakampwe, there is need for urgent proactive measures to curb the spread of locust infestation.
He cited the potential for widespread crop damage and famine if swift action is not taken.
During a press briefing, Mwanakampwe feared that these locusts known for their destructive feeding habits can cause extensive damage to crops potentially leading to devastating food shortages and economic loss.
Mwanakampwe disclosed that Central Province has been identified as one of the provinces affected by the locust which have caused a serious threat to the agricultural sector.
He stressed that these locust swarms can consume a massive quantity of vegetation in a single night, traveling great distances in search of food and causing a widespread damage to grazing areas for both domestic livestock and wild animals.
“A single swarm can consume as much as 160 tonnes of vegetation in a single night and travel up to 300 kilometers,” Mwanakampwe cautioned.
“Mumbwa, Chibombo and Chisamba are already suffering from the destructive effects of the African Migratory and Red Locusts.”
Mwanakampwe however reassured citizens that government is stepping up its efforts to contain the situation and prevent further destruction.
He revealed that there are efforts to educate communities and equip them with the tools and knowledge they need to protect their crops and grazing areas.
The permanent secretary further emphasised that government in collaboration with various stakeholders is taking a multifaceted approach to address the crisis by increasing surveillance and monitoring efforts in affected areas.
“We are leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to manage this situation, our collaboration with Disaster Management Mitigation Unit (DMMU), Ministry of Agriculture and the Provincial Administration allows us to conduct comprehensive surveillance and monitoring of the outbreak, which is crucial for timely intervention and control,” added Mwanakampwe.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba April 16, 2025