Tataouine on alert over the risk of migratory locusts

Agricultural Authorities on High Alert for Possible Locust Invasion in Tataouine Governorate

The agricultural authorities of the Tataouine governorate have intensified their vigilance against a potential arrival of desert locusts (Schistocerca gregaria). Ground and aerial resources are being mobilised to intervene swiftly if needed.

Key Points

Regional Commissioner for Agricultural Development, Monji Chniter, announced that the services responsible for locust monitoring are currently on alert and conduct daily surveillance of desert zones. This vigilance is complemented by regular checks of alert bulletins concerning the pest.
In a statement to the Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP) agency, Chniter explained that technical teams are closely tracking locust movements in the western and eastern desert areas. The concern is heightened by the presence of locust swarms in neighboring countries such as Morocco and Mauritania, raising the risk of a spill‑over into Tunisia via the Algerian border if climatic conditions become favourable.
Rainfall and abundant pasture could boost locust breeding, demanding a high level of alertness and constant preparedness to act at the right moment.

Recent History

Last year, the region experienced a sudden influx of locust groups. Rapid mobilisation of the relevant services allowed authorities to contain the outbreak and limit damage.

Ongoing Preparations

Training & Knowledge Exchange
- Periodic training sessions are organised for field agents and specialised technical staff.
- Expertise is shared with several countries, notably Mauritania. Mauritanian experts recently visited Tataouine to learn about Tunisia’s surveillance and control methods, while Tunisian regional delegation staff attended training programmes in Mauritania.
Field‑Ready Equipment
- Verification of ground equipment, mobilisation of vehicles, and stock‑piling of appropriate pesticides.
- Preparation of the aircraft designated for aerial spraying, ready to be deployed if the situation warrants.
Exploratory Missions
- The Agricultural Production Department conducts regular reconnaissance missions across desert zones to detect early signs of locust activity.

Coordination & Research

The Ministry of Agriculture and central administrations monitor the situation daily, ensuring permanent coordination among all involved structures.
Collaboration extends to scientific research institutions specialising in locust studies and to pesticide manufacturers that supply the necessary treatment products.

Reminder of Past Outbreak

In March of last year, Tataouine recorded the arrival of locust groups, especially in the Dhehiba area. Technical teams acted quickly, carrying out scouting and treatment operations that contained the spread without causing significant losses.

This translation is provided for English‑speaking audiences while preserving the original information and tone of the French source.