US$60 000 for armyworm management training

The PPI is spearheading the training of far-mers, headmen and extension workers. PPI director, Dr Godfrey Chikwenhere said the institute had already trained farmers in Mashonaland Central, which is usually hit by armyworm every year. “We are also preparing for training next month targeting farmers in Mashonaland West, Manicaland and Mashonaland East,” he said.

Dr Chikwenhere said the institute has been receiving assistance from the Food and Agricultural Organisation since the beginning of armyworm outbreaks in December.

“We have received 1 700 knapsack sprayers and these will be distributed to extension workers and farmers to help control the armyworm,” he said.

The institute is expecting more chemicals from FAO and has also ordered some from South Africa. Meanwhile, the PPI has advised farmers to be on high alert, as armyworm outbreaks are expected to resurface early next month with the problem likely to last until April. At the moment the armyworm is underground, in the pupae stage and takes seven to 15 days to become adult moths, which will start laying eggs.

Dr Chikwenhere said farmers, especially those in warm areas with a maize crop at knee level and below should always inspect their crops for armyworm attacks.

“Farmers who have late crop or are in warm areas with rainfall are at risk as the pest usually feeds on tender crops and pastures. Armyworm also favours warm wet conditions and as long as these continue, the country will continue to be affected by armyworm,” he said.

Dr Chikwenhere also said adult moths were carried by wind or rain, which is the main cause of the spread of armyworm. “The pest can move from Harare to Masvingo in a short space of time because it is carried by the wind,” he said.

 

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