Locust plague reaches Uganda

A plague of locusts that has been terrorising East Africa for the last few months has reached Uganda, according authorities there.

The desert locusts arrived on Sunday, and early reports are suggesting they have already infected two districts in the northeast of the country.

Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda chaired an emergency meeting of politicians and relevant experts within hours of the plague’s sighting.

Authorities have attempted to alleviate fears by reassuring people they have a strong plan to combat the infestation. 

The government intends of using the military might at its disposal, deploying 2,000 troops trained in spraying pesticides using both manual and motorised equipment.

The most effective method of combatting a plague of locust is air spraying, though Uganda does not have the aircraft or chemicals needed.

Authorities say they are in talks with Kenya to see whether they could borrow some of its aircraft, but Kenya is struggling with an invasion itself, and only has a small number to hand.

The last time there was a major invasion in Uganda was in the 1960s, which the majority of Ugandans will have no memory of.

Photo: Getty Images