Locust plague and coronavirus threaten food security in East Africa

African countries are facing a food crisis due to locust swarms that have been affecting crops since 2019. A third wave is expected in June and July. Locusts can travel long distances and consume large amounts of crops, equivalent to the daily food intake of thousands of humans. The pandemic has exacerbated the situation by restricting farmers' market access and complicating locust control efforts, such as pesticide application, due to curfews and other restrictions.

How has the pandemic affected farmers' ability to sell food in local markets?

What challenges do farmers face in getting rid of locusts during the pandemic?