Since FAO first developed and introduced drones for Desert Locust survey operations, FAO and its commissions, for controlling the Desert Locusts in the Central Region (CRC) and for Controlling Desert Locusts in the Western Region (CLCPRO), have been at work to increase drone use on the field by member countries.

The fourth annual regional Workshop on locust data collection, analysis, forecast and reporting in CCA took place online on 16-17 February 2023, gathering up to 56 experts from CCA countries and FAO.

FAO is developing a new system to track, manage and reduce pesticides and related equipment: the Locust Pesticide Management System (Locust-PMS). This system is meant to create a database and provide countries with

Scientific research on desert locust outbreaks can considerably improve the strategies and means of control, potentially reducing the threat posed to human life posed by this voracious insect. 

FAO, in collaboration with Stellenbosh University, organised a regional training workshop on banana Fusarium wilt (Foc TR4) in Stellenbosch and Nelspruit, South Africa. Experts from Stellenbosch University, Alliance Bioversity International - CIAT and Instituto de Investigaciones de Sanidad Vegetal (INISAV), Cuba trained eighteen participants from thirteen African and the Near Eastern countries... (Read More)

Aerial spraying is an essential and effective component of locust prevention and control. It allows to quickly controlling of large and remote areas, preventing locust infestations from spreading.

Knowledge homogenization between countries is essential to avoid knowledge gaps in the application of this technology, allowing all countries performing aerial spraying to maintain the same practices, improving efficacy, and reducing waste and potential risks posed by aerial spraying.