Desert locust swarms threaten agriculture in Morocco

Monday 07 April 2025 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Desert locust swarms threaten agriculture in Morocco

The latest monitoring bulletin from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicates the presence of solitary desert locusts across Morocco’s Draa and Ziz-Ghris valleys, specifically from Assa to Erfoud. Observations throughout March revealed evidence of breeding activities, including mating locusts.

On March 21, FAO surveillance recorded isolated fifth-stage larvae south of Tata, while sightings of mature transiens adults were noted between eastern Assa and southwestern Zagora starting March 23. Earlier in the month, first and second-stage larvae were detected south of Foum El Hisn.

In response to this developing situation, Moroccan authorities have initiated anti-locust control measures covering 2,249 hectares, with aerial spraying accounting for 2,000 hectares of the treated area.

Looking forward, the FAO anticipates that solitary adult locusts will persist south of the Atlas Mountains, where localized spring breeding is likely to escalate larval populations. The report cautions that additional adult groups may migrate from southern regions, breeding in the Draa and Ziz-Ghris valleys, where conditions are favorable for a spring generation.

By mid-April, the emergence of larval groups in regions experiencing group breeding is expected. To prevent a more extensive infestation that could jeopardize agricultural production, Morocco has enacted both preventative and responsive measures since the initial locust group sightings.

The National Center for Locust Control in Morocco has mobilized the necessary logistics to monitor affected areas, particularly near the Algerian border, such as Tata and the southeastern provinces. Additionally, the Interior Ministry announced enhanced preparedness levels on March 29 due to rising concerns over locust movements from the African Sahel and Northwest Africa.