Locust outbreak confirmed in Western Cape, Northern Cape and Free State

If you thought 2020 couldn’t get worse, think again. Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza has confirmed that there is an outbreak of locusts currently plaguing the country.

Three provinces are facing a locust infestation, including the Western Cape, Northern Cape and Free State. Didiza made the announcement on Thursday, December 3.

[Media Statement] Minister Didiza announces the outbreak of Locusts in Various Provinces. @verified @ARCSouthAfrica @obpvaccines @GovernmentZA @FarmersWeeklySA @VukuzenzeleNews #Outbreak #AnimalHealth pic.twitter.com/4yGdHIucSU

— Department of Agriculture, Land Ref and Rural Dev (@DALRRDgov_ZA) December 3, 2020

“Control measures are currently being implemented to curb the spread of the locusts. The current strong winds are aiding the fight and spread of the locusts,” Didiza said in a statement.

“The department has already dispatched a team of specialists to the affected provinces to work with the provincial departments of Agriculture and Rural Development officials and our entity, the Agricultural Research Council and farmer organisations.”