Zimbabwe is taking early, coordinated action to protect its wheat crop from destructive quelea birds. With drones, spray teams, and national surveillance, over 46,000 birds have already been controlled—giving farmers new hope for a successful harvest and national food security.
Sharleen Mohammed
Every year, quelea birds destroy tonnes of cereal crops across Zimbabwe. These tiny birds move in massive flocks and feed heavily when wheat is at its soft, milky stage just before harvest. Many farmers feared they would lose their crops again this season.
But this year, things are different.
The government has stepped in early to stop the birds before they do damage. According to the Ministry of Agriculture’s Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, teams are already on the ground in areas where quelea birds are known to settle.
In Chiredzi, more than 40,000 birds have been controlled. In Goromonzi, 6,000 birds were removed. New sightings in Matabeleland North, Plumtree, and Matabeleland South are being tracked closely. The fight is on.
To deal with the problem, the government is using drones, 45 mist blowers, 4 vehicle-mounted sprayers, and trained officers in all provinces. Agriculture Extension Officers recently given vehicles by the President are working closely with farmers to report bird activity early. If the situation grows bigger, the government says it will even bring in aircraft to spray wide areas.
Professor Jiri said the wheat crop is doing well this year, and protecting it is a top priority. Zimbabwe is targeting to harvest at least 600,000 tonnes of wheat — enough to support national food needs.
Farmers in affected areas are starting to feel hopeful.
“Spray teams came two nights in a row,” said a farmer in Matabeleland South. “Before that, the birds were all over the place. Now, my wheat is safe.”
With early planning and strong support, the country is turning the tide against quelea birds — and keeping its wheat fields green and growing.
