Desert locust

The Plant Health Sector at Weqaa Center works across all technical fields related to monitoring, detecting, and controlling desert locusts. Climatic conditions and environmental factors during breeding seasons are monitored through remote sensing channels, as well as by preparing and organizing survey studies under field exploration programs. Information related to the environment and desert locusts is collected, analyzed, and assessed to determine whether further field research or control measures are required. This work is carried out by a wide range of qualified human resources in the field. One of the main pillars of desert locust control is the optimal use of advanced GIS tools such as RAMSES, along with electronic field data collection channels, namely the eLocust3 system, which has recently been updated with the eLocust3K application. In addition, expertise and information are exchanged with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through the Desert Locust Information Service (DLIS), which keeps all countries constantly updated on the desert locust situation through early warning levels on electronic platforms such as FAO Locust Hub and Locust Watch. This is aimed at enhancing cooperation and coordination among organizations, authorities, and countries concerned with preventive monitoring and control, while maintaining continuous awareness of the global desert locust situation. The Center also partners with the Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in the Central Region (CRC) to provide the necessary technical, financial, and logistical support to ensure best practices in controlling desert locusts in member states. Joint specialized training programs and projects are also organized on a continuous basis to develop the human resources engaged in desert locust prevention and control. These discussions address all challenges related to strengthening and upgrading national centers and empowering their capabilities, contributing effectively to the Center’s objectives of early control of pest activity and preventing population increases that could lead to outbreaks difficult to contain during seasons, particularly in Northeast Africa and the Horn of Africa. The Center also maintains constant communication with the Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in the Western Region (CLCPRO) with the aim of achieving advanced solutions in modern technologies for monitoring and remote sensing, as well as in the field of biopesticides as environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides.

​   Procedural Guide for Desert Locust Exploration and Control