FAO launches Africa-wide tsetse fly distribution map

By Zablon Oyugi The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has released the first-ever Africa-wide tsetse flies distribution map. This comprehensive tool will help combat animal trypanosomosis disease, also called “nagana,” in cattle on the continent. The continental atlas of the distribution of tsetse flies in Africa has been termed as a vital tool against the often-lethal parasitic disease among livestock that causes billions of dollars in economic losses for farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. The disease, which is caused by the blood-sucking tsetse fly insects, hinders milk and meat production, as well as the animals’ health. This is because the insects act as incubators and carriers of trypanosomes, single-celled parasites responsible for debilitating and often fatal diseases. As a result, this has led to food insecurity and decreased income for millions of African farmers who depend on livestock. In humans, this disease is also known as “sleeping sickness”. ...