A plant pest alien to Asia is sweeping across the continent causing serious damage to crops and livelihoods
The Fall Armyworm (FAW) was first confirmed outside of its native Americas in Africa in early 2016. Since then it has spread rapidly across sub-Saharan Africa, infesting tens of millions of ha of maize, sorghum and millet.
In mid-2018, Fall Army Worm arrived in India and has continued to spread quickly. By the end of last year, there were reports of infestations in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and by mid-January further reports emerged of FAW’s presence in Thailand and Myanmar. It is also confirmed in China.
FAO is convening a meeting of officials from the affected countries, as well as experts who’ve been tackling the fallout of FAW in Africa and Latin America, and who have been learning ways to get FAW under control.
RSVP in advance would be appreciated. Interviews with experts can be arranged. More information and links on the conference can be found on this landing page.
