Fear has gripped farmers in Ndola’s Bwana Mkubwa area, on the copperbelt following the invasion of fall armyworms in their fields.
The farmers, who are dealing with the fall armyworm infestation, are concerned that if not properly handled, this could lead to significant yield losses.
A check by phoenix news revealed that most fields had extensive damage to plants, with fall armyworms visibly chewing on leaves, prompting farmers to call for government intervention.
Meanwhile, Ndola District Agricultural Officer Philip Kalima says government is yet to establish the extent of the damage to crops in the Bwana Mkumbwa area.
Mr. Kalima however tells Phoenix News that his office has commenced a response to the attack by training farmers on early identification of the fall armyworm while money has been made available to procure pesticides for distribution among the farmers.
PHOENIX NEWS