Tanzania deploys biological control to defeat fall armyworm and boost maize production

The United Republic of Tanzania is leading a breakthrough in sustainable pest management with the successful deployment of indigenous biological control agents to combat Fall Armyworm, a crop pest responsible for more than USD 300 million in agricultural losses since its arrival in the country. Through support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), scientists and national institutions have introduced locally sourced fungal and wasp-based biocontrol solutions that significantly reduce pest damage while improving yields and safeguarding environmental and human health.

This innovation was showcased at the 19th FAO Subregional Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Meeting for Southern Africa, marking a major milestone in green agriculture and food systems transformation.

Responding to devastating economic losses and pesticide risks

Fall Armyworm has severely affected maize production across Tanzania, threatening food security and rural livelihoods. Faced with rapid pest spread, many farmers initially relied on chemical pesticides, raising concerns about food safety, environmental health, and compliance with international sanitary and phytosanitary standards. To reduce dependence on chemicals and protect natural ecosystems, Tanzania prioritized biological pest management solutions that harness local biodiversity and align with global sustainability commitments.

Harnessing local biodiversity through research and farmer engagement

With technical backing from FAO, Tanzania identified two native biological control agents — Trichogramma mwanzai (a parasitic wasp) and Aspergillus oryzae (a beneficial fungus). These agents were evaluated through laboratory studies and multi-location field trials conducted in partnership with the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority and Sokoine University of Agriculture. FAO provided rearing cages, incubators, refrigeration equipment, and funding to strengthen national capacity for mass production and trial implementation. Participatory field trials involved farmers and extension officers, ensuring community ownership and practical knowledge transfer for large-scale deployment.

Striking results in pest reduction and yield gains

Field evaluations demonstrated more than 80 percent reduction in Fall Armyworm infestation and a 45 percent increase in maize yield when using the biocontrol agents. These results confirm the potential of native biodiversity to offer highly effective and environmentally responsible pest control alternatives. Beyond farm-level benefits, the initiative has strengthened Tanzania’s institutional and technical capabilities in biological control development, laying the groundwork for reduced chemical pesticide dependency and enhanced food safety standards.

Paving the Way for Regional Scaling and Trade Compliance

To scale these solutions, Tanzania is advancing harmonized regulatory frameworks and strengthening public-private partnerships for commercial-level mass production and distribution. With both the pests and control agents present across multiple agro-ecological zones, the approach is well-positioned for nationwide expansion and knowledge transfer to neighbouring countries. Enhanced regulatory support, private-sector engagement, and continued capacity building will ensure sustained impact and wider adoption across the region. As global markets increasingly demand sustainable production and strict phytosanitary compliance, Tanzania’s biocontrol leadership demonstrates a forward-looking model for climate-smart agriculture and secure international trade pathways.

By replacing chemicals with nature-based solutions and reinforcing farmer-centred innovation, Tanzania is creating safer, greener, and more resilient food systems for future generations.