Moroccan locust control measures in Afghanistan
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Locust outbreaks continue to pose a serious threat to food security across many countries. In Afghanistan, the Moroccan locust (Dociostaurus maroccanus) remains a persistent challenge, endangering agriculture and rural livelihoods, particularly in the northern, northeastern, and western regions. Without timely intervention, locust swarms can cause widespread damage to both crops and rangelands—two essential pillars of food security, nutrition, and income for rural communities.In 2025, nearly 12 percent of Afghanistan’s rainfed wheat production was expected to come from locust-prone areas. The calculation was done base on the 2024 production data. These regions also encompass key grazing lands, where locust hatching typically begins in March and April. Nomadic and pastoralist communities rely heavily on these pastures for spring grazing of livestock, particularly cattle and sheep. When forage is consumed by locusts, families are forced to purchase wheat straw and feed supplements, increasing costs and reducing income.To mitigate these impacts, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) coordinated a targeted locust control campaign in 2025, building on the findings of the 2024 egg-bed survey. Efforts were concentrated in the provinces most at risk, with high infestations reported in Baghlan, Balkh, Kunduz, Takhar, and Samangan. Lower levels of locust activity were observed in surrounding provinces, but vigilance remains essential.This targeted approach underscores the importance of early warning systems, regular surveillance, and preventive control to protect agricultural production and sustain rural livelihoods amid growing climatic and ecological pressures.