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Online Reporter
FARMERS should be alert of the African armyworm and fall armyworm pests that can potentially derail the prospects of their harvest, a senior Government official said.
The Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary — Professor Obert Jiri —made the call following the rains recently received countrywide.
“Beware of the African armyworm. Recent rains provide favourable breeding conditions for the pest.
“Eleven reports have so far been received from Mashonaland Central, Midlands, and Mashonaland West. Stay vigilant,” said Prof Jiri.
Mashonaland West Agricultural Advisory and Rural Development Services (AARDS) provincial director Ms Evelyn Ndoro urged farmers to scout their crops three times every day to avoid losses.
“Farmers must try their best to inspect their crops in the morning, afternoon and evening.
“If they notice any invasion, they need to contact our ward-based extension officers for immediate assistance so that we try to avoid any losses,” said Ms Ndoro.
Both African armyworm and fall armyworm have the potential to cause considerable crop damage as much as 70 percent of the crop they invade. Scouting is considered to be crucial to employ chemical use to manage the pests before they spread.
Online Reporter