Govt pushes drone patrols for locust fight
Zimbabwe’s agricultural ministry advocated for satellite monitoring and drone surveillance to combat migratory locust threats following a successful 2024-2025 harvest season. Permanent Secretary Obert Jiri told an International Red Locust Control Organisation meeting on Tuesday that collaborative pest management protected crops from fall armyworm and quelea bird damage.
Favorable breeding conditions across the region create elevated risks of outbreaks from both domestic sources and neighboring territories outside the organization’s membership. Advanced detection systems would enable faster responses when infestations emerge. Ground surveillance teams require technological reinforcement to maintain agricultural productivity gains.
Member nations must strengthen diplomatic engagement with non-participating countries where pest invasions originate. Jiri characterized pest management as a regional security concern requiring formal coordination frameworks between technical agencies across borders. Unchecked problems in one area threaten food supplies throughout southern and central Africa.
Financial contributions from participating governments fund the organization’s field operations and administrative functions. Officials should view annual payments as investments that protect national food security, rather than optional expenses. Consistent funding enables rapid deployment when locust populations surge in southeastern lowveld breeding areas.
