BAKU, Azerbaijan, Dec. 2
By Klavdiya Romakayeva - Trend:
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has invested $7.5 million in the implementation of a project of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) aimed at improving locust control, Trend reports referring to the press service of the organization.
The first meeting of the project steering committee was held online with the participation of representatives of the six beneficiary countries, representatives of JICA, and FAO specialists.
The parties discussed the main activities planned to be carried out, analyzed the budget and work plan for the first year, as well as other issues related to reducing the damage caused by locusts. Attention was also paid to the improvement of qualifications of national specialists responsible for locust control.
According to the FAO, the latest equipment will be supplied to improve pest monitoring, which will make it possible to better predict locust outbreaks and reduce their catastrophic rate. It was also noted that it is planned to include the use of less toxic pesticides and preparations for biological pest control.
“Special attention will be paid to reducing the negative impact of pesticides on human health and the environment, which involves the supply of personal protective equipment and other measures,” FAO project coordinator in Uzbekistan Sherzod Umarov said.
Umarov noted that the project is aimed at raising awareness of the local population about more effective methods of locust control and safety measures.
In addition, the project is expected to help ensure food security and improve the well-being of rural populations in Central Asia and Afghanistan by preventing threats and reducing damage from pests.
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