By Kelvin Wilson Kasiwulaya
Zimbabwe is facing a resurgence of armyworm infestations, with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, and Rural Development warning farmers about outbreaks in several areas.
This comes as part of a broader trend where climate variability exacerbates pest pressures, impacting agricultural productivity and food security.
Background on Armyworms in Zimbabwe
The fall armyworm, a major pest, was first reported in Zimbabwe in 2016 and has since become a persistent threat to crops like maize, sorghum, and millet. The African armyworm also poses significant challenges during wet seasons, attacking cereal crops Both pests can cause substantial yield losses, with the fall armyworm potentially reducing maize production by up to 70% if unmanaged.
Impact on Farmers’ Yields
The infestations not only reduce crop yields but also increase the likelihood of hunger among affected households by 12%5. Severe infestations can lead to a 44% decrease in per capita household income, further compromising food security5. Prompt reporting and management are crucial to mitigate these impacts, as early intervention can significantly reduce economic and food security losses.
The Ministry’s call for immediate reporting of suspected infestations underscores the urgency of addressing these climate-driven pest outbreaks to protect Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector and ensure food security.