Desert locust invasion threatens food security in Kenya

Kenya is facing a dire threat to its food security as a second round of desert locust invasion looms on the horizon, warned Dr. Muo Kasina, Chair of the Entomology Society of Kenya. According to the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization, significant numbers of locust hatchlings have been spotted along migratory paths that had already experienced a first round of incursion. This emerging cycle of infestation poses a serious risk to the nation's agricultural sector and food production. Dr. Kasina joined CNBC Africa to discuss the potential impact of this impending crisis. In the interview, Dr. Kasina highlighted the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the threat and ensure food security for Kenya's population. The looming locust invasion threatens to exacerbate an already fragile economic situation, as the country grapples with the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Kenya's government faces the daunting task of addressing both the immediate humanitarian needs and the long-term agricultural implications of the locust infestation. As the nation braces for the potential consequences of a second wave of locust invasion, experts emphasize the critical importance of swift and decisive action to protect livelihoods and ensure sustainable food production in the region.