Plants are not just a backdrop to human and animal life – they are central to the health of our entire planet. In the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of people, animals, plants and ecosystems, plant health is a vital but often underrecognized pillar. Here's why plant health is critical.

The trials, carried out in Oman, highlighted the drones' effectiveness in achieving precise pesticide distribution, particularly in rugged areas that are challenging to access with conventional methods. This represents a significant advancement in adopting modern technology to improve control efficiency and reduce the environmental impact, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional pesticide application techniques.

Discover the drivers behind emerging plant and animal pests and diseases, including zoonotic spillovers. Join on 12 May for the launch of a new Community of Practice under the One Health Knowledge Nexus – a global platform for experts, practitioners, and policymakers from all sectors to exchange knowledge and advance the One Health approach.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is urging countries in Northwest Africa to enhance monitoring and initiate early control measures as adult desert locust groups and small swarms - originating from the Sahel - moved into southern Sahara in the Western Region of the desert locust distribution area.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations is leading efforts to safeguard the future of banana production by supporting countries in combating Fusarium Wilt Tropical Race 4 (TR4) and Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV). These diseases pose a serious threat to agricultural investments and the livelihoods of farmers, as bananas are a vital source of income for millions of smallholder farmers worldwide. 

Like many other tropical countries, Kenya faces fall armyworm infestations, with maize crops recording high levels of infestations during the growing season. The FAO-China South-South Cooperation Programme conducted a refresher training to equip Kenya’s plant protection officers and extension officers with skills and tools to manage fall armyworm sustainably. 

Iran and Pakistan are gearing up for the upcoming spring locust breeding season. To enhance preparedness, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is boosting the capabilities of Desert Locust Information Officers (DLIOs) in both countries. DLIOs are responsible for collecting field data, analyzing it, and producing monthly bulletins that summarize the locust situation and provide forecasts.

The FAO-China South-South Cooperation (SSC) Project has facilitated training of over 20 national plant protection and extension officers in Ghana, empowering them to sustainably manage Fall Armyworm (FAW) and, in turn, strengthen the country’s resilience against this destructive pest.

As Oman is keen to strengthen its capacity to address climate change and emerging biological threats, the country welcomed the integrated biosecurity index tool (IBI) developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The tool will support Oman’s efforts to enhance its regulatory systems, assess biosecurity risks and develop effective response measures.

At the 11th Session, member countries of the FAO Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in the Western Region (CLCPRO) lauded the significant progress made in the collective fight against desert locust threats across the region. The Commission enhances national locust management capabilities while integrating advanced technologies.