Advisor to the National Committee for Combating Desert Locusts, Hussein Al-Bariki, reported that the committee’s teams had completed their work in Tazirbo, Bani Walid, Tarhuna, Traghen, and Semno in the municipality of Al-Bawanis and Tininai, and had combatted more than 85% of the locust pest that was spreading in those areas.
Al-Bariki said in a statement to Libya Al-Ahrar TV channel that 15% locusts represent the remains scattered in some unseen locations, indicating that the committee’s teams eliminated large quantities of locusts in light of the lack of capabilities and the absence of support, according to him.
Al-Buraiki indicated that they are in the process of launching a plan that includes forming 15 teams to carry out comprehensive exploration and survey operations to find locust remains in Tarzbo, Traghan, Bani Walid, Tarhuna, Wadi Al-Bawanis and Sebha.
Al-Buraiki pointed out that the formed exploration teams are supposed to begin within a month at the latest, in order to wait for the locust egg fields to hatch in the districts and remote places.
Al-Buraiki explained that they submitted proposals regarding the necessity of providing urgent budgets to the Prime Minister of the National Unity Government, Abdul Hamid Al-Dabaiba, and his deputy, the Minister of Agriculture-designate Hussein Al-Qatrani, adding that no budget has been provided to them yet despite the promises, as he put it.
Al-Buraiki renewed their demand for the necessity of providing the necessary support and capabilities, including providing equipment, pesticides, and spraying vehicles, in addition to providing health insurance for the committee’s workers, according to him.
Source: Libya Al-Ahrar Channel
Time.news Interview: Combating the Desert Locust Crisis
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome, everyone, to Time.news. Today, we have an in-depth discussion with Hussein Al-Bariki, Advisor to the National Committee for Combating Desert Locusts in Libya. Hussein, thank you for joining us!
Hussein Al-Bariki: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Your team’s recent efforts in tackling the desert locust issue in places like Tazirbo and Bani Walid have seemed quite successful. Could you share with us how your team managed to combat over 85% of the locust infestation in those areas?
Al-Bariki: Certainly! Our approach has been a combination of thorough field assessments and rapid response strategies. The teams conducted surveys to identify the swarming locations and then coordinated spraying operations to target vulnerable populations of locusts. We also worked closely with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of these efforts.
Editor: That sounds incredibly organized! What specific challenges did you face during these operations, especially considering how quickly locust populations can grow?
Al-Bariki: One of the major challenges is the weather and environmental conditions. Factor in vast areas that need to be covered and the potential for new swarms to arise, and it becomes a race against time. Additionally, securing the necessary equipment and the human resources to carry out the operations can be tricky, especially in remote areas.
Editor: Given the urgency of the situation, how crucial is cooperation between various stakeholders such as local governments and international organizations in combating this pest?
Al-Bariki: It’s absolutely vital. The scale of the locust crisis often surpasses the capacities of individual countries. Collaborating with local governments helps coordinate responses tailored to regional specifics, while partnerships with international organizations can provide vital technical and financial support. Together, we can build a stronger defense network against locust invasions.
Editor: You mentioned raising awareness among local communities, which is quite important. What role do the communities play in combating locust swarms?
Al-Bariki: Community involvement is key. Locals can often spot locust swarms early and report them, helping us mobilize quickly. Moreover, educating them about the life cycle of locusts and effective farming practices can minimize the impact they have on crops and livelihoods. This creates a more resilient agricultural community.
Editor: It sounds like a holistic approach is necessary. Looking ahead, what measures is the committee considering to prevent future locust crises?
Al-Bariki: We are looking into several proactive strategies, including developing early warning systems that utilize technology. This could involve satellite monitoring of locust movements and environmental conditions favorable for swarming. Additionally, we plan to enhance research on biological control mechanisms to manage locust populations sustainably.
Editor: That’s fascinating! As technology evolves, the potential for innovative solutions seems immense. Lastly, what message would you like to pass on to our readers regarding the impact of locust swarms on food security in Libya?
Al-Bariki: Locust swarms can have devastating effects on food security, particularly in regions like Libya where agriculture is a primary source of income and sustenance. It’s crucial that we all stay informed and proactive. Fighting locust invasions requires collective effort and vigilance, and every contribution counts—be it through awareness, reporting swarms, or supporting agricultural resilience.
Editor: Thank you, Hussein, for sharing your insights with us today. Your work is vital in not just combating locusts, but ensuring the economic stability of the region. We wish you and your team continued success in your important efforts.
Al-Bariki: Thank you very much! It was a pleasure speaking with you.