ADDIS ABABA – Locust swarms are breeding alarmingly in parts of Oromia, and Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples region as well as in the Rift Valley areas, said the Ministry of Agriculture.
Mentioning as the Ministry has been doing its level best to prevent the breeding of the locust swarm; it called on the concerted efforts of all actors to downsize the negative impacts. Speaking to The Ethiopian Herald, Ministry’s Plant Protection Director, Zebdiyos Salato said that the Ministry has been operating with enormous potential and the current situation is under control.
As the breeding has continued with a higher rate, the level of the threat is sure to increase in the days to come, according to him. Active Media’s role is vital in this regard Zebdiyos said, adding that the media should play a key role in facilitating the community’s participation. Chemical sprinkling has already begun to prevent the swarm. “Two planes which are pledged by FAO will also support the operation soon,” he said.
According to FAO’s report swarms continue to mature and breed over a widespread area of Oromia and SNNPR regions, including the Rift Valley. Cross-border movements as well have continued to be reported from adjacent areas of Somalia and Kenya.
The Ethiopian Herald Friday Edition March 6/2020
BY YESUF ENDRIS
