By Mukembo Wilfred
The department of Crop Protection under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has announced an invasion and outbreak of African Army-worm (Spodoptera Exempta) which is a pest of cereals and grasses/pastures.
According to Charlotte Kemigyisha, the Public Relations Manager of MAAIF the army worm has so far been reported in 12 districts including; Luwero, Mukono, wakiso, katakwi, Bukedea, Bugweri, Serere, Busia, Bugiri, Mityana, Kiryandongo and Namutumba.
Charlotte says that the worm can be controlled by an Insecticide – Cypermethrin 5EC- 100-120mls mixed in 20lts of water.
Charlotte says MAAIF is supporting the districts with Insecticides and pumps for demonstrations on control working with the production and marketing teams at district and subcounty levels
She adds that the outbreak/invasion is as a result of climate change. However it is expected that it will be suppressed by the rains.
