Traghen – Ahmed Hussein is the agriculture sector coordinator for Traghen Municipality. He warned about the risks of the Red Palm Weevil spreading. Hussein urged the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources. He asked them to quickly issue a decision. This decision would prevent the movement of palm seedlings between municipalities. This is to protect agricultural wealth. It is especially important in southern regions.
Hussein stated to the Libyan News Agency. Fezzan regions have not recorded any confirmed infestations of this pest yet. However, the continuous import of seedlings from outside the region is a concern. Some citizens also do not adhere to preventive measures. This could contribute to the pest’s spread.
The coordinator affirmed that prevention is the only line of defense. This is crucial given the limited resources for control operations.
He noted that the Red Palm Weevil was recently recorded. It was found in the areas of Awjila and Al-Jufra – Waddan. Efforts to limit its spread remain restricted. This is due to a lack of resources. This increases the likelihood of the infestation expanding.
The agriculture sector coordinator stressed the need to activate the role of the agricultural police. Prohibition decisions must be circulated at checkpoints and entry points. Monitoring the import of palm seedlings from outside the country must be tightened. He considers Fezzan’s palm trees a strategic asset. They are a primary source of livelihood for the region’s residents.
Hussein concluded his warning. He emphasized that any recorded Red Palm Weevil infestation in the south would be a real disaster. This is especially true in Traghen Municipality. It would occur amidst a lack of necessary resources to combat it.