SOROTI, July 17, 2025 –– Agricultural experts in the Teso sub-region are urging farmers to adopt best practices for managing the Fall Armyworms [FAW], a destructive pest that commonly affects crops such as maize, sorghum, and rice, particularly during the dry season.
James Elungat, the Agricultural Officer for Katakwi district, noted that although fall armyworms can be highly destructive, efforts are underway to mitigate its impact through farmer training and demonstration plots established across various sub-counties.
“Farmers often visit agricultural offices not only to seek advice on FAW, but also to borrow equipment like spray pumps, which we provide,” said Elungat. He stressed the importance of vigilance and proper crop care during the vulnerable stages of growth.
Moses Okello Eceku, the Agricultural Officer for Soroti district, added that the current infestation levels are not severe, thanks to the ongoing rains which help suppress the pest. However, he advised farmers to remain proactive.
“Spraying should be focused on the throat of the plant to prevent recurrence,” Eceku explained. “This should be done early in the morning or late in the evening when the pest is most vulnerable.”
Eceku also recommended regular monitoring of fields for early detection, along with timely planting at the onset of the first rains.
“Early planting ensures that by the time the infestation peaks, the crops are already mature enough to withstand damage from the pest,” he said.
Best practices for Fall Armyworm control
- Early Planting: Sowing crops early in the season allows them to establish before peak armyworm activity.
- Push-Pull Technology: Intercropping maize with desmodium, which repels armyworms, and surrounding fields with trap crops like Napier grass can be effective.
- Use of Resistant Varieties: Planting pest-resistant maize varieties or applying neem-based products can help deter infestation.
Potential Risks
Fall armyworm can cause significant damage not only to staple crops but also to a range of host species such as Sorghum halepense, bentgrass, crabgrass, Johnson grass, nutsedge, pigweed, sandspur, and Cenchrus tribuloides, among others.
Buy your copy of theCooperator magazine from one of our countrywide vending points or an e-copy on emag.thecooperator.news
