FAO launches guide to tackle Fall Armyworm in Africa head-on

FAO launched today a comprehensive guide on the integrated pest management of Fall Armyworm on maize. Designed for Farmers Field Schools, the guide will help smallholder farmers and frontline agricultural staff to manage FAW more effectively amidst fears that FAW may push more people into hunger. Central and Southern Africa are particularly on high alert, as the main maize growing season is currently underway in these regions. Based on a learning-by-doing approach, the guide is packed with hands-on advice. It provides support for a correct identification of this new foe for African farmers – and offers options to manage it in an integrated, ecological and sustainable way.

Allan Hruska, Principal Technical Coordinator – Fall Armyworm, FAO Plant Protection and Production Division, elaborates more on the new guide to tackle Fall Armyworm in Africa. (Interview conducted by Murielle Sarr).