24 Feb 2014

The United Nations’s Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) has funded the management of the Asian Fruit Fly in Botswana to the tune of US$219, says a press release from the Ministry of Agriculture.

The release stated that this followed the recent outbreaks of the fruit fly. It said the ministry had already appointed the project coordinator to show commitment of the project.

The release further indicated that the deputy director, Mrs Fatima Makgethe outlined that the fruit fly species had a wide range of host crops that included mango, citrus, cucurbits and other wild fruits.

Ms Makgethe said at first, the fruit fly was detected in the Chobe District in 2010, and in 2013 it was reported in the Central and North East districts. The pest was also reported in the neighbouring countries of Namibia, Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The release stated that due to financial constraints, the affected countries met and developed a joint proposal on the management of the troublesome fly as BONAZAZI sub region and requested funds from FAO.

It said FAO representative in Botswana, Mr David Thibe, stated that the BONAZAZI had agreed to combat the fruit fly pest by preparing a regional project. After reviewing the project, states the release, FAO advised that each country prepare a country specific request.  

He stated that BONAZAZI regional project has been also approved and supported with a total amounted US$444.000 which is waiting for endorsement by SADC.  Mr Thibe said that the project is expected to improve trade and food security at both household and national level.

It also stated that project resources are to be used for provision of technical assistance and procurement of inputs. ENDS