Impact of Desert Locusts (Schistocerca Gregaria) on Livelihoods, Food Security and Its Management Practices in Ethiopia: Review

Abstract

Swarm of desert locust is grouped under species grasshopper and order orthoptera. Initial outbreak areas are in remote semi-arid areas in the Sahara, on the Arabian Peninsula. The locust can from three to ten months and the life cycle comprises of three stages: egg, hopper (nymph) and adult. Its’ plagues have always been particularly destructive for Africa due to its ability to reproduce rapidly, migrate long distances. In east Africa, especially in Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia the locust outbreak is threatening livelihoods, food security, environment and development. The population of the Ethiopia up to 80 percent depends on agriculture for their livelihoods. The worst desert locust outbreak in 25 years is destroying crops and pasture in the country. Swarms enter into Ethiopia from Somalia through Aysha. Over 75,219 hectares of land has been affected by desert locust. Above 8.5 million people in the country have face challenges of food security and feeds due to the invasion of desert locust. The most affected regional states in Ethiopia are Somali, Afar and Oromia. E arly warning, Noising, Smoking, Digging trenches, Chemical control and Integrated Pest Management by building up of the natural enemies are major control ways of locust invasions.