TEHRAN – The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has played a crucial role in supporting the Islamic Republic of Iran in addressing the significant Desert Locust upsurge from 2020 to 2022.

Notably, the country has successfully averted an upsurge over the past year with the support of FAO initiatives.

Through the Technical Cooperation Emergency Programme, "Urgent action for capacity building to control Desert Locust infestation in the Islamic Republic of Iran," FAO effectively strengthened the monitoring and control capabilities of the Plant Protection Organization of the Ministry of Agriculture Jahad. Technical support was received from the FAO Regional Office in Bangkok, and its headquarters in Rome.

Operational from 2020 to 2023, the project made substantial contributions to the Plant Protection Organization, enhancing its strategies and capacities to combat Desert Locust outbreaks. Hundreds of Desert Locust and agriculture officers were trained in locust biology, behavior, and modern practices for surveillance, monitoring, control, and management of Desert Locust infestations. These efforts have significantly improved the management of locust outbreaks, mitigating the adverse effects on agriculture and local flora.

An effective Desert Locust contingency plan was developed at the governmental level, integrating management strategy and enhancing preparedness and response capacities of the Plant Protection Organization at the national level.

While the upsurge has been defeated, FAO emphasizes the cyclical nature of locust infestation. FAO will continue collaborative efforts with the Islamic Republic of Iran through the FAO Commission for Controlling the Desert Locust in South-West Asia (SWAC), Desert Locust Control Committee (DLCC), and Desert Locust Information Officer (DLIO) workshops. This ongoing partnership aims to maintain surveillance and response mechanisms, strengthening defenses against future upsurges of this destructive migratory pest insect.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security. FAO's mandate is to achieve food security for all and make sure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives.

FB/MG