RedLocust

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Sustaining Food Security in the Region

Our coordinated efforts, research, and environmentally sustainable methods make us a leader in migratory pest management.
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Sustaining Food Security in the Region’

Our coordinated efforts, research, and environmentally sustainable methods make us a leader in migratory pest management.
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Who We Are

United Against Locust Plagues

The International Red Locust Control Organisation for Central & Southern Africa (IRLCO-CSA) was founded in 1970, succeeding the International Red Locust Control Service established in 1949. The organization emerged in response to one of Africa’s most severe locust plagues in Africa from 1929 to 1944. With strategic bases and airstrips across Africa, we are equipped for rapid response to locust outbreaks.

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What We Do

Controlling migratory pests

Our work ensures the protection of crops and contributes to food security across our member states. Below are the key activities we undertake to fulfill our mission.

Monitoring

We continuously monitor locust populations and other migratory pests using advanced technologies and field surveys. Our surveillance systems help in early detection and timely intervention to prevent outbreaks from escalating.

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Research

Our research focuses on understanding the biology, behavior, and ecology of locusts and other migratory pests. We develop new control methods and improve existing ones to enhance our pest management strategies.

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Control Operations

When locust populations reach critical levels, we deploy targeted control operations. These include aerial and ground spraying of environmentally friendly pesticides, ensuring minimal impact on the ecosystem while effectively reducing locust numbers.

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Operations

Strategic and Responsive Pest Management

IRLCO-CSA operates from strategic bases in Mozambique, Malawi, and Tanzania, near key red locust outbreak zones. With airstrips in Tanzania at Masenge, Kaliua, and Muze, we ensure rapid response capabilities. Our headquarters in Ndola, Zambia, coordinates all operations.

Know Your Pests

Different Locust Species We Manage

Each species requires specific monitoring and control strategies to effectively mitigate their impact. Below, we detail the key locust species managed by our organization.

Red Locust

Found primarily in the floodplains of Zambia, Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique, the Red Locust is a major focus of IRLCO-CSA’s.
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African Migratory Locust

It breeds in moist, grassy areas and can cause extensive damage to cereal crops, necessitating coordinated control measures.
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Desert Locust

Outbreaks can threaten the livelihoods of millions of people, making it a high-priority target for international locust control efforts.
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Climate Impact Research Partnership

Adapting to Environmental Changes

In collaboration with climate scientists, this partnership investigates the effects of climate change on locust populations and movements. Understanding these impacts helps us adapt our control strategies to changing environmental conditions.
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Pest Survey Completed

Comprehensive Analysis and Strategic Recommendations

Survey Overview

Our team conducted an extensive survey across key areas, identifying locust hotspots and assessing the risk of potential outbreaks. This survey involved both ground and aerial inspections to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Key Findings

The survey revealed several areas of concern, with notable increases in locust activity in specific regions. We have documented the locations, population densities, and environmental conditions contributing to the rise in pest activity.

Impact Assessment

We analyzed the potential impact of the locust populations on local agriculture, including crop damage and economic implications. Our findings highlight the urgency of implementing control measures to mitigate these risks.

Member States

United in the Fight Against Locusts