Swarms Near Borders: Zimbabwe Races to Stop Locust Invasion

Zimbabwe has gone on high alert as swarms of African migratory locusts tear through Botswana and Namibia, threatening to cross borders and devastate crops.

With food security hanging in the balance, authorities have mobilised teams and issued nationwide warnings to prevent a repeat of the 2020 crisis.

Recent heavy rains across southern Africa have created ideal breeding conditions for locusts, prompting swift action from the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.

Permanent Secretary Professor Obert Jiri said Zimbabwe is closely monitoring developments and coordinating with regional partners to assess the threat.

“We have received alarming notifications from our counterparts in Botswana and Namibia regarding their ongoing battles with African migratory locust outbreaks.

“Understanding the potential implications, we have immediately issued alerts to all provinces in Zimbabwe to remain vigilant and prepared,” he said.

According to Herald, the government is not waiting for the threat to escalate.

Teams have already been deployed to inspect locust activity across districts, while training sessions are underway to equip personnel with skills in locust identification, biology, and control techniques.

Professor Jiri added, “Our focus is on monitoring the situation closely, assessing the control efforts being implemented in these neighbouring countries, and evaluating the risks of an invasion into our territory.”

Zimbabwe’s proactive approach is informed by past experience.

In 2020, the country faced a significant locust invasion that severely impacted food security.

Experts warn that a single swarm can contain tens of millions of locusts, capable of consuming food meant for thousands of people in just one day.

The country remains an active member of the International Red Locust Control Organisation for Central and Southern Africa (IRLCO-CSA), which coordinates pest control efforts across the region.

Through this partnership, Zimbabwe receives technical support and monitoring data to guide its response.

Professor Jiri stressed the importance of early action.

“We are not just waiting for the locusts to arrive, we are actively mobilising resources and training personnel on locust identification, biology, and management.

“It is essential that we equip our teams with the necessary knowledge and tools to respond effectively in case of an invasion,” he said.

With regional outbreaks intensifying and climatic conditions favouring locust breeding, Zimbabwe’s readiness could be the difference between containment and crisis.

Authorities remain on high alert, determined to protect national food security and safeguard livelihoods across the country.