Lusaka Province Acting Permanent Secretary, Alex Mapushi, has assured farmers in the province that the government has stocked sufficient pesticides to protect maize fields from Fall Armyworm infestation in order to enhance food security.

Mr Mapushi emphasised that the pesticides are being distributed free of charge, stating that anyone found selling the products should be reported to authorities.

He has urged farmers across the province to promptly report any suspected Fall Armyworm infestation in their fields to their respective District Agricultural Coordinators (DACO’s).

Speaking in an interview with ZANIS, Mr Mapushi revealed that the government has distributed 10,000 liters of pesticides across all six districts in the province as part of its efforts to prevent crop losses from pest attacks.

“Take infestation reports very seriously. Do not ignore them or assume it is nothing,” Mr Mapushi said.

Mr Mapushi further noted that the province is receiving good rainfall, except in parts of Luangwa District and Chiawa area of Kafue, which have recorded minimal rainfall.

He said despite these challenges, the Lusaka Provincial Administration remains optimistic about a bumper harvest and is committed to combating the pest.

Mr Mapushi added that government intervention has been timely, following reports of the pest detected across the province in the second week of December, 2025.