Locust invasion raises alarm for agriculture in Morocco
Locust swarms have begun to invade multiple regions across Morocco, prompting significant concerns regarding the potential impact on agriculture and food security. This alarming situation follows similar outbreaks in neighboring Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, with locusts now making their way through Moroccan territories.
Social media platforms were inundated on Friday night with images and videos showcasing large swarms of locusts in various cities, including Tafraout and Ighrem, near Tiznit. Earlier this month, sightings were reported in other regions as well.
Known for their destructive feeding habits, locusts can rapidly consume vast areas of farmland, posing a serious threat to Morocco’s already vulnerable agricultural sector and overall food security.
In response to this crisis, the National Center for Locust Control in Morocco has mobilized teams to monitor the situation, particularly in areas close to the Algerian border, such as Tata and the southeastern provinces. These efforts aim to track the locusts' movements and implement protective measures to mitigate potential damage.
Local reports indicate that the Moroccan government has deployed Canadair planes equipped with pesticide sprays to targeted areas in an effort to control the locust population and prevent further spread. Experts caution that a small swarm of locusts can consume the equivalent of food for 35,000 people in just one day. If the invasion remains unchecked, it could lead to catastrophic consequences for crops.
The opposition party, the Progress and Socialism Party, has raised concerns in Parliament about the government's strategies to safeguard Morocco's agriculture and ensure food security in light of this escalating threat.
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