Lusaka Province Principle Public Relations Officer, Logic Lukwanda has revealed that the government has allocated 1,500 litres of pesticides to Chilanga District farmers to control fall armyworm infestation.

Mr Lukwanda says that the allocation targets 659 hectares of affected cropland, which translates into a nine percent infestation rate across the district.

In a press statement made available to ZANIS in Chilanga, Mr Lukwanda stated that timely intervention by government to secure pesticides, coupled with recent heavy rainfall, has effectively countered infestation.

“The government gives premium to agriculture, and farmers are urged to remain highly alert against potential resurgence.” Mr Lukwanda notes

Fall armyworm larvae voraciously feed on crops, especially maize, sorghum, and rice.