THE NORTHER CAPE REPORTS THE FIRST BROWN LOCUST OUTBREAK.

As the country welcomes spring, a new generation of locust swarm has been sighted in various towns of the Northern Cape.

The Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform can confirm that the first brown locust outbreak this season is in Upington, Kliprand, Gamoep, Carnavon and Louriesfontein.

The outbreak is as a result of warmer conditions and enough moisture still on the soil after recent rains in some parts of the Province.More outbreaks are expected in other districts, as the weather becomes warmer and rain expected in various parts of the Province.

With the assistance from the National Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, teams of Locust Controllers were activated and dispatched to control the locust outbreak, in affected areas and nearby farms in the Province.

MEC Mase Manopole calls on land owners and farmer to corporate with our Controlling Teams by allowing them access to their premises for a smooth control of the swarm. MEC further urged drivers to be cautious as our roads become slippery as a results of hoppers (baby locusts) moving from nearby farms onto our main roads.

We further call on members of the public and farmers to report any visibility of these swam in their areas to the following departmental officials, Ms. Mulalo Matodzi on 083 326 7773, Ms. Vuyokazi Mpumlwana on 084760 8176 and Dr. Ikalafeng Kgakatsi on 072 198 9882
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