l’Algérie déploie depuis des années de gros moyens pour faire face au fléau
Summary of Efforts Against Desert Locust Infestation in Algeria
Context and Importance:
On Wednesday, Hamid Bensaâd, the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries, spoke in Ouargla about Algeria’s ongoing battle against the desert locust invasion. This persistent threat to agriculture has prompted significant mobilization of resources by the Algerian government to protect food security and agricultural potential.
Government Measures:
In response to the invasion of desert locusts migrating from neighboring countries, Algeria has implemented various preventive and proactive measures. Bensaâd highlighted that the Ministry has allocated substantial resources to the National Institute of Plant Protection (INPV) for effective response. Each year, over 2,000 hectares in southern regions are treated to mitigate the impact of these pests.
This regional meeting convened as a follow-up to President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s directives during a recent Council of Ministers meeting, signifying the government’s commitment to collaborative efforts among southern wilayas affected by locust swarms.
Collaboration and Operations:
To further tackle the locust threat, Algeria has established vigilant teams since December 2023, particularly after the first swarms were reported in In-Guezzam. These teams, in partnership with the Ministry of National Defense, operate on extensive land areas to prevent further spread into other wilayas such as Illizi and Djanet.
Additionally, the government has stockpiled significant amounts of pesticides, which are periodically tested to ensure efficacy for timely application when needed. Bensaâd emphasized the critical nature of these efforts in preserving national agricultural resources and food security.
International Assistance:
Moreover, Algeria has been proactive in its regional responsibilities, supplying significant quantities of pesticides to neighboring Tunisia, which has recently experienced its own invasion of desert locusts.
Technical Insights:
Mohamed Lazar, the Director-General of the INPV, provided a technical overview of the situation in the southern regions. He detailed the steps taken since locust swarms were first detected, highlighting the mobilization of treatment teams and resources for both land and aerial applications, particularly in border areas prone to infestations.
Lazar reassured that ongoing interventions aim to control and reduce conditions favorable to locust reproduction. Specifically, since the initial reports in In-Guezzam, hundreds of hectares have been treated, which reflects the urgency and importance of anti-locust operations.
Current Situation and Challenges:
Presently, locust movements are confined to six wilayas in southeast Algeria. Preventive measures, including the disinfection of breeding sites, have been enacted to curb the migration risk to other areas. The overarching goal is to eliminate as many locust swarms as possible to protect agricultural zones within their migration corridors.
Operational Strategy:
The action plan involves the deployment of 30 ground teams and 50 mobile units trained in locust treatment, along with resources such as helicopters and drones provided by the Ministry of National Defense. This comprehensive strategy aims to ensure thorough surveillance and swift response to locust movements.
Collaboration Across Sectors:
The regional coordination meeting, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and supported by other government sectors—such as National Defense, Interior, and Local Authorities—featured contributions from specialists in anti-locust mechanisms. Discussions revolved around formulating effective preventive plans and strategies to mitigate the current threat.
The event included participation from executives of 22 wilayas, demonstrating a broad commitment to addressing this pressing agricultural issue through both in-person and virtual engagement.
In Conclusion:
Algeria’s proactive and collaborative approach to combating the desert locust threat reflects its commitment to safeguarding agricultural resources and ensuring food security. By mobilizing resources, collaborating with neighboring countries, and implementing strategic measures, the government aims to prevent the escalation of this potentially devastating agricultural crisis.
