Agric Department train farmers on Biological control to rout fall armyworm in Dormaa East District

Scouting for natural enemies of the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda), the Dormaa East District Agriculture department has organized a training to aid the biological control program in the fight against the voracious pest.

The two-days intensive hands on training, organized by Agric department funded by “FAO-United Nations” was to train farmers on the preparation and use of botanicals (Neem extracts) to control fall armyworm infestation.

The training organized at Akontanim in the Dormaa East District had 80 participants, mainly maize farmers were introduced to the concept of Neem extract as potential solution for fall armyworm control to reduce yield losses, minimize the use of pesticides and to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Fall armyworm is a serious pest that devours over 300 plant species, including maize and sorghum, which feed millions of people every day.

Biological control is one of the safe, effective, and socially acceptable options available for integration into the management of FAW.

In attendance was Mad. Gertrude Adjei-Boateng-District Agric director, Adupaa Emmanuel-AEA for the Akontanim and other Agric Extension officers.

According to the facilitator for the training, Mr. Augustine Atta Agyei – DAO-PPRSD.

“The fall armyworm situation in the district is on a high due to unpredictable/low rainfall and late detection. Over the years’ farmers rely on conventional chemicals which have several negative effects on the environment, human health, and overall agriculture sustainability, In response to these challenges, the utilization of botanicals, such as neem extract, has gained attention as an alternative and eco-friendly approach to fall armyworm control”. He said.

The directorate further appealed to NGO’s and various Agric stakeholders for support to provide funding in order to occupy all the farming communities in the Dormaa East District.

The two days training focused on the early detections and utilization of botanicals, specifically neem extract, as effective and environmentally friendly method to combat the devastating impact of fall armyworm infestations on maize crops in the selected community.