A swarm of locust have been recorded in Omatengela village, Ongenga constituency. The village is located within Ohangwena region and the outbreak occurred during the weekend. The exact location or point from where this locust came from, is not yet known.
Locusts are among the most destructive pests in the world. One swarm can contain tens of millions of adults – there are currently multiple swarms in the southern region. A single swarm can eat as much in one day as 2,500 people, demolishing crops and livestock pasture in a matter of hours.
According to Mr. Nghiitombo; regional chairperson of NNFU within Ohangwena region, “the locust outbreak occurred during the weekend and so far it`s known to have only affected Omatengela village”.
To counter act and eliminate these pests from further spreading, the ministry of agriculture deployed officials to spray the affected area and to help out the residents within Omatengela village. One farmer within the village have expressed his satisfaction with the fast and effective response that the agricultural ministry have displayed.
“If the agricultural ministry didn`t respond on time, these pests could have caused more devastating effects. However, because of their fast response, the damage caused is not that severe”, says Thomas a resident from the village. “Although it is too early to celebrate, so far the help from the ministry have been effective. Our hope is that, we do not have to experience another swarm of locust again”, he added.
Omatengela village is close or near the border of Ohangwena and Omusati region. There is great fear that the locust might spread to Omusati region. Hence, farmers within Omusati region especially those close to Ongenga constituency are cautioned to be ready and be on the lookout.