Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 10 April, 2025.
Limulunga District, Western Province.
In a decisive move to protect Zambia’s food security and rural livelihoods, the government has launched a comprehensive aerial operation targeting the growing red locust infestation across Western Province.
Officiating at the launch event in Limulunga District, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services at the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. John Mulongoti, underscored the urgency of the intervention. He noted that the aerial spraying campaign is a critical response to the outbreak, which has heavily affected Limulunga—the outbreak’s epicenter—and spread to other vulnerable districts such as Lukulu, Sikongo, Senanga, Nalolo, Sioma, and Sesheke.
“This operation is a pivotal part of our national strategy to mitigate the devastating impact of red locusts on crops and pasturelands,” Mr. Mulongoti stated. He appealed to local communities to actively support the exercise, highlighting that successful pest eradication hinges on collaboration between authorities and residents.
The Ministry of Agriculture has mobilized specialized regional pest control experts to lead the aerial spraying campaign. The operation is expected to span several days, deploying targeted chemical treatments designed to neutralize the locust swarms before they can further devastate farmlands.
Mr. Mulongoti issued a stern public health advisory, warning residents and farmers against handling, consuming, or feeding dead locusts to livestock due to the toxicity of the chemicals being deployed. “The substances used in this spraying campaign are hazardous if ingested by humans or animals. We strongly caution all residents to avoid contact with sprayed locusts,” he emphasized.
To reinforce this message, the Ministry is engaging traditional leaders, local authorities, and agricultural extension officers to raise awareness about the dangers of mishandling contaminated locusts. Community sensitization efforts are being ramped up to ensure widespread understanding of the health risks and best practices during the spraying period.
Beyond immediate pest control, Mr. Mulongoti reaffirmed the New Dawn Government’s broader commitment to sustainable agriculture and food security. He assured the public that continuous monitoring and proactive measures are in place to prevent future outbreaks, reinforcing Zambia’s resilience against agricultural threats.
“This is not just a government responsibility; it is a collective effort,” he concluded. “By working together, we can safeguard our crops, protect our livestock, and secure the livelihoods of our farmers across Western Province.”
The operation marks a critical milestone in Zambia’s ongoing efforts to combat climate-related agricultural challenges, with authorities optimistic that the swift intervention will help stabilize food production and rural economies in the region.
The Agency.