June 13, 2024 | The New Times |
The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) and FAO launched a nationwide campaign in Rwanda against mango mealybugs, which severely affect mango crops, leading to shortages and financial losses. The campaign began with a ceremony at a farm in Nyanza District, highlighting successful pest management practices. Over the years, mealybugs devastated mango trees across the country, prompting efforts to promote Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, emphasizing sustainable pest control without excessive pesticide use. The initiative includes educational sessions for farmers on preventive measures like pruning and sanitation to minimize mealybug impact. FAO has supported Rwanda since 2019, training extensionists and farmers in biological control methods using parasitoids, ensuring effective pest management. Farmers, like Prudence Sendarasi, have benefited from FAO's support with modern sprayers and training, optimistic about increased harvests. Coretta Uwamahoro, a farmer promoter, shared how training and pesticides have helped combat mealybugs effectively, aiming for complete eradication. FAO continues its collaboration with Rwandan institutions to bolster agricultural resilience and nutrition security through sustainable practices.