DLCO-EA Objectives
01
Aerial survey and control of Desert Locusts and other mandated and emerging migratory pests and vectors (Quelea bird, armyworm and tsetse fly, etc).
02
Applied Research on migratory pests, pesticides use and safety in the region.
03
Forecasting of migratory pests, information sharing and coordination.
04
Staff development in the member countries.
The establishment of DLCO-EA was based on the following broad considerations:
Damage caused by plagues of the Desert Locust to crops, pasture and other vegetation in the past, e.g. Between 1928-1959, ran into millions of US$ per annum – a situation which was detrimental to the realization of food security in Eastern Africa and other affected Regions, and for which, a regional approach was best.
The mandated insect and bird pests migrate across international borders; they breed and multiply rapidly; they move over long distances and attack crops, pasture and other vegetation; while the Tsetse flies transmit a deadly sleeping sickness disease to livestock and humans when they move into an area in increased numbers.
Regional co-operation facilitates regular exchange of information, early detection, and hence rapid deployment of operational personnel and equipment for timely intervention to reduce damage, etc.
Regional forecasting and warnings benefit the countries, which at the time, may not be suffering from pest attack, but which are under potential threat of invasion from elsewhere.
Regional training builds capacities, encourages the exchange of ideas and experiences freely between member states, and contributes to more efficient pest and vector management, and to improved food security in the region.
The regular Ministerial Council Meetings at rotating venues in member countries, contribute towards a common understanding between member states, and stronger regional co-operation.
The Regional Organization facilitates the channeling of regional assistance to plant protection services of member states, and the procurement and utilization of regional funds from donors which are of immediate benefit to member states.
Centralised research activities, pool resources and reduce costs, while ensuring that the results benefit wider geographical areas and larger populations that share common threats from migrant pests and vectors.