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From Sydney Mubaiwa in Zaka
Farmers have been urged to be on the lookout for the dangerous and devastating fall armyworm, which is likely to target the maize crop across Zimbabwe.

Addressing farmers last weekend, Zaka District Agritex officer Mr Esau Mutuzungari said farmers could only win the battle against plant pests and diseases if they identified them early.

He said successful crop production in Zimbabwe was one of the ways to boost the economy.

“This farming season, we urge farmers to be on the lookout for plant pests and diseases,” he said.

“This message is directed to all our farmers and field extension workers to watch for the fall armyworm.

“For us to win the battle, we need to detect it early. We may also need to form community crop rescue teams that will guard against crop pests and diseases.”

Mr Mutuzungari said Government had availed sprayers and chemicals to farmers who may encounter the pests.

He urged farmers not to entertain bogus pesticide dealers who come to them claiming to be agricultural experts, saying that they should buy chemicals from reputable and registered agents for effective pest and disease control.

“Let’s do away with street vendors who claim to be good pesticide dealers,” he said.

“We should not buy our chemicals randomly so that we win the battle against pests and diseases.

“The armyworm must not be taken for granted. What worries us most is that there are some pesticide dealers going around villages selling fake chemicals to our farmers.”

The fall armyworm affected many farmers in Zaka District and threatened their yields last season.