Government commits K64m to fight army worms, red locusts
Government says it has pumped in K64 million (US$153 477) to deal with the outbreak of army worms and red locusts that have destroyed 2 391 hectares of crops and 779 hectares of grazing land in eight districts.
Minister of Agriculture James Munthali told the media in Lilongwe on Friday that out of the 2 391 hectares of crops destroyed, 547 hectares are for maize.
He said many farmers will need to replant.
“This is serious and that is why government has pumped in K64 million to deal with this. We intend to hire a plane to help with destroying the worms before they cause further damage,” said Munthali.
The minister said the situation is under control.
“The most affected crop areas as well as the bush for livestock grazing have been controlled using the community approach in spraying chemicals from the strategic chemical reserves for the ministry. However, due to late reporting of the occurrence of the worms, they spread further, but there is no cause for worry as government will provide assistance,” said Munthali.
