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Locust swarms began invading several areas across Morocco, sparking growing concerns about the impact on agriculture and food security. The invasion follows similar outbreaks in Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, with locusts now moving through the country.
On Friday night, social media platforms were flooded with images and videos showing large groups of locusts in various Moroccan cities, including Tafraout and Ighrem near Tiznit. They were also spotted in other regions earlier this month.
The locusts are known for their ability to destroy crops, as they can rapidly consume large areas of farmland. This could threaten the country’s already fragile agricultural output and food security.
In response to the invasion, the National Center for Locust Control in Morocco has reportedly mobilized teams to monitor the situation in the affected areas, particularly those near the Algerian border, such as Tata and the southeastern provinces.
Efforts are underway to track the movement of the locusts and implement protective measures to limit damage.
According to local reports, Morocco’s government has deployed Canadair planes equipped with pesticide sprays to targeted areas to control the locusts and prevent further spread.
Experts warn that locusts can consume massive amounts of food in a short time, with a small swarm capable of eating the equivalent of what 35,000 people would consume in a day. If left unchecked, the locust invasion could result in severe damage to crops.
The opposition party, the Progress and Socialism Party, has raised questions in Parliament regarding the government’s measures to protect Morocco’s agriculture and ensure food security amid this growing threat.