Fall armyworm in Africa

16.6.2017

Question for written answer P-004016-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Alex Mayer (S&D)

An invasion of fall armyworms, a devastating pest for crops such as maize, has recently been spreading across Africa. It was first registered in Nigeria in 2016, but has now spread to over 20 countries on the continent.

It is estimated that around 40% of Uganda’s crops have already been ravaged by the pest. The spread of this insect has put millions of Africans at risk of hunger and could cost Africa billions of dollars’ worth of lost crops.

Not only has this insect spread across Southern Africa, but there is also a risk of it moving north via the Mediterranean and causing damage to crops in Europe.

Can the Commission explain what measures it has taken to help stop the spread of fall armyworm in Africa and, if necessary, what measures are being taken to address the food shortages that could arise as a result of the outbreak?