The Inter-Regional Platform for the Sustainable Management of Desert Locusts and Other Transboundary Pests in the IGAD region has convened a two-day meeting to enhance regional coordination and the adoption of innovation.
The event, dubbed “Enhancing Data-Driven Decision Making for Transboundary Pest Control,” focuses on using research to mobilize targeted resources and take proactive measures.
IGAD, in collaboration with the Desert Locust Control Organization-East Africa (DLCO-EA) and the World Bank, is evaluating the platform’s effectiveness in responding to and controlling transboundary pests within member countries to strengthen actions.
Data is instrumental in supporting proactive measures against transboundary pests. For seamless data-driven approaches, innovative technologies and building technical capacity must be adopted. The meeting highlighted the importance of coordinated pooled resource mobilization to establish infrastructure that boosts data collection.
As noted by Mr Mwesigwa Moses Rwaheru, Director, DLCO-EA, the 6th Steering Committee meeting has primarily focused on data, emphasizing the need for quality, reliable, and affordable information to enhance early warning systems.
“Early warning is crucial for us as it enables preparedness and early action, reducing damage to crops and livelihoods during pest infestations. During the 2019 invasion, significant harm was caused to plants, humans, livestock, and the environment,” said Moses.
IGAD has pioneered efforts to ensure data availability in the Greater Horn of Africa region through the evidence-backed East Africa Hazard Watch, a ‘one-stop shop’ on the ICPAC website that tracks climatic conditions. The platform also includes a Pest Watch segment that analyzes major pests in the region, such as the fall armyworm, quelea birds, African armyworm, and desert locusts.
According to Dr. Abdi Fidar Officer in Charge IGAD’s Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC), the 2019/2020 pest invasion from the Arabian Peninsula through Somalia and Eritrea affected the Greater Horn of Africa as far as Uganda due to low preparedness and insufficient data to inform actions.
“The first invasion occurred during a rainy season, resulting in abundant vegetation that served as breeding grounds for pests. However, compared to the 2023/2024 invasion, having accurate data allowed for early preparedness, enabling effective coordination and control while the pests were still in Somalia,” said Abdi.
He echoed the DLCO-EA Director’s call for accurate, factual, and actionable information to support evidence-based decisions. Abdi emphasized that enhancing technical capacity will facilitate coordinated pooled resource mobilization for infrastructure aimed at boosting data collection and advancing preparedness.
“We lack sufficient technical capacity, yet the quality of data is critical for decision-making. Data is crucial, which is why we are analyzing recommendations from member states, highlighting the need for infrastructure, remote sensing, satellite imagery, and artificial intelligence expertise,” said Abdi.
IGAD member states reiterated the need for self-reflection and ownership of the platform to ensure the sustainability of projects and programs in the long term.
Mr. Moses further emphasized the importance of regular follow-ups on national actions to control migratory and transboundary pests. “These are our regional problems, requiring homegrown solutions. We cannot expect outside support if we are not engaging in self-reflection and identifying our starting points for solutions,” he said.
Interventions by IGAD Member States
Kenya’s efforts in harnessing digital tools and innovations to combat transboundary pest invasions include using text messages to alert community members, establishing migratory pest units at county levels, and training teams on GIS tools in support of RCMRD.
Uganda’s presentation revealed the trial use of drones for pest spraying, though technical challenges were encountered. The delegation urged for increased capacity building in technology to facilitate the adoption of remote sensing, satellite imagery, and other advanced technologies.
A recommendation was made to create programs aimed at sensitizing stakeholders and policymakers on digital literacy and artificial intelligence.
Ethiopia’s delegation shared insights on quelea bird invasions, advocating for alternative environmentally friendly interventions to complement chemical pesticide application.
Data from Ethiopia showed that using drones and aircraft to spray roost areas effectively reduced the spread of quelea birds. Member states were urged to enhance collaboration and share best practices.
A quelea bird destroys about 10 grams of grain per day. These birds fly in millions, devastating farmers’ crops (wheat, teff, sorghum, millet, rice, etc). As DLCO-EA’s core mandate, aerial survey and control operations are taking place in eastern Ethiopia.
The importance of early preparedness remained undeniable, as it significantly reduces losses and response costs. Proactive measures, such as the use of biopesticides, are most effective when supported by early awareness, minimizing the need for harmful pesticides.
“We must recall the high cost of responding to the 2019/2020 pest upsurge, which exceeded USD 250 million,” added Mr. Moses.
South Sudan’s delegation reported a quelea bird invasion in November 2024 in the country’s northern regions. While the invasion was managed, the delegation highlighted limited data on pest control, relying on IGAD and the Food and Agriculture Organization for support.
