This archive report was first published on 6 January 2020.
On 28th December 2019, Desert Locusts first crossed into Kenya from El-Wak, posing a threat to food security. The government has since been working to contain the situation.
Government spokesperson Colonel (Retired) Cyrus Oguna announced on Sunday that the operation has been expanded to Garissa County, following the latest surveillance and monitoring report indicating the presence of the insects in the area.
According to Oguna, the spray aircraft stationed in Wajir has managed to spray designated swathes of locusts in Wajir and Mandera Counties. Marsabit and Garissa are in the next schedule of aerial spray.
Monitoring activities identified swarms of locusts in Leisanyu and Sabuli in Wajir, which were sprayed. Teams for the other two counties, Garissa and Marsabit, were expected in the station late on Sunday.
Colonel Oguna assured the public that the government is in full control of the situation, with the operation continuing to ensure that the situation is fully controlled and possible spread of the locusts is contained.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has been fully briefed about the situation and has directed relevant ministries, agencies, and authorities to deal with the situation as quickly as possible.
Addressing the issue of the safety of the sprays, Oguna assured Kenyans that the chemicals used have been tested, registered, and authorized for the use of control of locusts, hence not harmful if used according to the guidelines given.
