Zimbabwe: Tomato Leaf Miner Pest Threatens Crop Production

Farmers in Zimbabwe are grappling with the Tuta absoluta pest, also known as the tomato leaf miner, which is destroying tomatoes and other crops, threatening production and trade. This pest, which was first identified in Africa in 2008 and originated from South America, has spread across the continent and causes significant yield loss and increased tomato prices. It can spread through fresh tomato fruits, seedlings, packaging materials, or wind currents. In response, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) is working with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to develop and implement harmonised national strategies to control trans-boundary crop pests. This nine million Euros European Union funded programme aims to tackle five crop pests and diseases, including Tuta absoluta, Fall Army Worm, fruit fly, maize lethal necrotic diseases, and banana fusarium wilt. The FAO's focus is on improving rural livelihoods, enhancing food security, and increasing trade opportunities by effectively managing and controlling plant pests and diseases.