FAO empowers Iran in combating desert locust upsurge

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 upsurge over
the past year with the support of FAO initiatives.

Through the Technical Cooperation Emergency Program,
"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 FAO Regional
Office, 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.