#China #Fall Armyworm #Food Security #FAO #Huizhou

Uniting Against the Fall Armyworm

The fall armyworm, a resilient pest that has rapidly spread across continents, poses a significant challenge to global food security. Since its expansion into global markets in 2016, this invasive species has been attacking staple crops such as corn and sorghum, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and food supply chains in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Recognizing the urgency of this alarming situation, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has partnered with the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) to initiate collaborative efforts aimed at combating the fall armyworm. A pivotal international workshop was held in Huizhou, China, from November 11 to 15, 2024, where experts from various nations including Kenya and Ghana convened to share insights and strategies for sustainable pest management.

China first faced the challenge of the fall armyworm in late 2018 when it entered Yunnan Province. The prompt response from the CAAS involved the establishment of comprehensive monitoring systems, such as the deployment of pheromone traps and insect radar stations which have proven effective in tracking and managing the pest's spread. Moreover, the country has developed an innovative