Farmers in the Zambezi Region are struggling with an outbreak of fall armyworms, which are destroying maize fields and threatening this season’s harvest.

In Kongola, one of the worst-hit areas, villagers say the infestation is dashing their hopes for a good yield.

Headman George Maano noted that despite good rainfall, the worms have appeared just as maize seeds have germinated, with some stalks already dying. He said agricultural extension officers are aware of the situation and will intervene based on the availability of pesticides. Maano also suggested that the government consider aerial spraying to cover more farms efficiently.

He observed that these worms appear different from those previously known in the area. "The ones we know are greener, but these are darker. They enter through the tip of the maize plant and burrow inside the stalk, causing it to dry out."

The infestation is not limited to maize crops. Another type of worm is destroying Muzinzila tree leaves, exposing their fruit to the sun.

Kongola resident Basopa Muine said traditional methods of controlling the pests, such as sprinkling them with salt or filling maize tips with sand, are failing. She fears losing her N$4,000 investment in seeds, ploughing, and weeding.

While maize is heavily affected, sorghum and millet crops remain untouched, and among trees, only Muzinzila is showing signs of damage.