Amuru steps up surveillance as fall armyworm infestation spreads
AMURU, May 5, 2026 — The Amuru District Production Department has deployed extension workers to intensify surveillance and support farmers battling an outbreak of American Fall Armyworm [AFW] in maize gardens.
Also known as Spodoptera frugiperda, it is a highly destructive pest of maize, capable of causing extensive damage to leaves, stems and cobs. Scientists say effective management requires an integrated approach combining chemical and non-chemical methods.
The pest is a migratory moth, whose larvae [caterpillars] are the most damaging stage. The larvae are typically greenish-brown with orange stripes along their sides and a brown head marked with dark patterns. They feed voraciously on maize plants, reducing photosynthesis and sap flow, weakening plant vigour and, in severe cases, causing wilting or death.
The current infestation, first reported in early March, has spread to the sub-counties of Lamogi, Guru-Guru and Amuru, affecting more than 70 acres of maize.
Simon Komakech, the Amuru District Production Officer, said extension workers are actively training farmers on various methods to prevent and control infestations.
“Our main focus is to equip farmers with knowledge on appropriate control measures, including the proper use of pesticides to contain the spread,” Komakech said.
However, some farmers say they cannot afford chemical solutions. Jackson Opio, a resident of Pagak Village in Pagoro Parish, Lamogi Sub-county, said his three-acre maize garden has been heavily infested, raising fears of a poor harvest.
“I have resorted to using ashes as a local method to try and control the worms because I cannot afford pesticides,” Opio said.
The Fall armyworm has remained a persistent challenge in the region since it first appeared in Uganda. Previous outbreaks have been recorded in Amuru District over the years.
In June 2023, the pest ravaged maize farms in Lakang and Layima sub-counties. Similar infestations were reported in May 2022, prompting calls for government intervention. In 2019, the worms destroyed several acres of maize at Amuru Government Prison farm.
Nationally, fall armyworm was first reported in Uganda in June 2016 and had spread to all districts by the end of 2017.
https://thecooperator.news/experts-in-teso-advise-farmers-on-fighting-fall-armyworms/
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