In Mozambique the pest was recently detected

From 11th to 15th December 2017, two trainings were carried out for more than 50 extension technicians, in the methodology of the Farmer Field Schools (FFS) with Adaptation to Climate Changes, from Ribaué, Malema and Meconta districts.

These trainings, in addition to addressing climate change and its effects, include some measures to control the threat of outbreaks of the fall armyworm pest that occurs most heavily in the central region of the country.

In addition to these trainings, FAO is supporting the government in setting traps that reduce the spread of the pest on plantations.
This plague has already decimated crops in neighbouring countries such as Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi and in some regions of Mozambique has shown signs of being present. Due to their migratory status can affect large areas in a short time causing huge economic losses.

The fall armyworm is an invasive species native to the Tropics of the American Continent that is believed to have entered Africa through São Tomé and Príncipe and was detected in Africa in 2016 (January in Nigeria, April in Central Africa and late in the year of 2016 in Southern Africa).

This pest has more than 80 host plants but is more prevalent in maize cultivation.