ARDAS Strengthens Zimbabwe’s Defence Against Crop and Livestock Pests Amid Climate Challenges
The Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) is intensifying efforts to protect Zimbabwe’s agriculture from a range of pests and diseases that threaten food security and livelihoods across the country. In an interview with The Herald in Harare, ARDAS chief director Mrs Medlinah Magwenzi highlighted the directorate’s strategic approach using expert knowledge and resources to combat pests such as fall armyworm, African armyworm, and ticks.
Mrs Magwenzi outlined how climate change variability exacerbates pest and disease outbreaks, posing heightened risks to both crops and livestock. To counter these threats, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development’s Migratory Pests department has deployed active surveillance teams across provinces. These teams set traps designed to detect pest presence early, preventing their spread and potential destruction of vital agricultural produce.
“We were supposed to have lost large quantities of wheat to quelea birds, but due to the efforts of this department, this disaster was averted,” Mrs Magwenzi said. This success underscores the effectiveness of proactive pest management. She also revealed that a network of strategically placed chemical controls is in place, ready to swiftly tackle any pest outbreaks.
A noteworthy advancement is the use of drones, with each province equipped with at least one. These have been maintained and are ready to deploy instantly upon any pest identification, facilitating rapid response and enhanced surveillance.
Currently, the ARDAS teams are vigilantly monitoring for locust sightings, with rapid investigation protocols ready in case of reports. The onset of Zimbabwe’s rainy season, which intensifies cropping activities, makes vigilant pest monitoring even more critical to safeguard yields throughout crop development stages.
In addition to crop pests, livestock faces elevated risks during this period, particularly from tick-borne diseases such as theileriosis (commonly referred to as January disease). This disease, transmitted by infected ticks, severely affects cattle health and consequently threatens economic security for farmers dependent on livestock.
Zimbabwean farmer Mrs Tendai Mlambo from Mashonaland East recognises the importance of ARDAS’s work: “Thanks to early warnings and pest control strategies, my maize and cattle have been protected this season, despite unusual weather patterns.” Her experience reflects the broader positive impact of integrated pest management on rural livelihoods.
Zimbabwe’s proactive stance aligns with its National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which prioritises agricultural productivity and food security in the face of climate change. ARDAS’s continued investment in cutting-edge surveillance tools and community education ensures farmers, including women and youth, can better protect their crops and livestock.
FFA explainer box
“Fall armyworm” is an invasive pest that feeds on various crops, particularly maize, causing significant yield losses if uncontrolled. “Theileriosis,” also known as January disease, is a tick-borne infection affecting cattle that can lead to fatal outcomes without timely treatment.
By harnessing scientific knowledge, leveraging technology such as drones, and maintaining rapid response teams, Zimbabwe strengthens its agricultural resilience. This comprehensive approach is vital for safeguarding food supplies, enhancing farmer incomes, and promoting sustainable rural development across the nation.
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