Moffat Mungazi
Agriculture Reporter
AN outbreak of the African armyworm has spread to 30 districts across Zimbabwe, prompting the Government to intensify chemical distribution efforts to contain the pest.
Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka, confirmed the development in a statement.
He said all 10 provinces have reported outbreaks since the first case was detected on December 31, 2024.
“A total of 30 districts have been affected to date, compared to five provinces and nine districts affected in the previous season,” said Dr Masuka.
The African armyworm (Spodoptera exempta) and the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) are highly destructive pests that threaten key crops, including maize, wheat and soybeans.
They feed on leaves, stems and flowers, causing significant damage and potential yield losses.
As of Tuesday, the Government had dispatched over 220 kilogrammes of chemicals to combat the African armyworm.
“The African armyworm infestations typically occur between December and April, as winds carrying seasonal rains also bring the pests into Zimbabwe,” added Dr Masuka explained.
“They mostly target young crops and rarely attack those at reproductive stages.
“However, their rapid spread is fuelled by the sheer number of eggs laid — each female moth deposits between 1 000 and 1 300 eggs in her lifetime.”
Online Reporter