China-aided locust control supplies have been reached in Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda. The handover ceremony of the donation was held on June 10, 2020 in Uganda while customs clearance was completed for supplies to Kenya on June 12, 2020. The customs clearance is undergoing for supplies to Ethiopia.
The MARA devised solutions to locust control in these three countries in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the China International Development Cooperation Agency of China. The MARA instructed relevant manufacturers to supply locust-control preparations, equipment and other supplies.
The donation to the three countries includes 112 metric tons of malathion, 2000 motorized backpack mist dusters, 3500 hand-held ultra-low-volume sprayers, and 4000 sets of medical coveralls, protective masks and pairs of gloves each.
The three countries appreciated China for its rapid response and generous donation. On behalf of the Government of Uganda, Vincent Ssempijja, Ugandan Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), stated that China's assistance will take Uganda very far in ensuring its food security.
In the next stage, the MARA, in partnership with other ministries, will also provide technical assistance to these three countries, including online training courses and DVD regarding locust control.