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Kenya is preparing for a possible second swarm of destructive desert locusts starting next week.
According to the Chief Secretary of Agriculture, Hamadi Boga, locusts have multiplied in Somalia, Ethiopia and Yemen, and they are moving rapidly towards Kenya.
“The Food and Agriculture Organization’s map and forecast shows that the locust population has increased and that they will enter the country starting this weekend.” The Nation newspaper quotes Boga.
However, the official noted that Kenya is ready to deal with the spread of desert locusts in the country.
Authorities have mobilized resources to ensure that insects do not wreak havoc, including the purchase of chemicals and planes for spraying and helicopters primarily for surveillance.
According to a forecast seen by The nation, the counties that will be affected by the invasion are Mandera, Wajir, Marsabit, Isiolo, Garissa, Tana River, Turkana, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Meru and Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet and Pokot.
“However, the invasion in the Coastal region will be minimal. The wave will be witnessed in central and northern Kenya. It is probable that part of the swarm moves towards Tanzania because we have already sighted some in Taita Taveta and the wind is blowing towards the neighboring country ”, warned Boga.
The government will also deploy National Youth Service (NYS) personnel to work with counties to address the spread of desert locusts.
Boga urged the public to collaborate with authorities to address the spread of the insects by providing information on their sightings well in advance.
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