Locust crisis grips Zambezi, farmers left reeling
Agricultural officials in Namibia’s Zambezi region are urging cultivators to proceed with land preparation despite a significant infestation of African migratory locusts affecting multiple districts. Raphael Mbala, who previously served as councilor for Kabbe constituency, stated on Tuesday that the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform has dispatched control teams to address the problem through aerial application of pesticides.
Communities in Kasaya, Nakabolelwa, Luhonono, Bukalo, Kabbe, Muyako, Masokotwani and Linyanti have reported widespread insect activity. John Matengu, who farms near Muyako, described the situation as critical on Tuesday and proposed that aerial drones might provide better coverage than ground vehicles in remote locations. The insects have reached their winged phase, making containment more difficult.
Agriculture minister Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi confirmed last week that response teams have received three Land Cruiser vehicles, seven vehicle-mounted applicators and handheld equipment. The floodplains near Muyako and Old Masokotwani serve as breeding habitat for the species, accelerating its expansion across the region. Officials warned residents against handling or consuming insects that have been treated with chemicals.
