Stink bugs attack Senanga sorghum fields

ABOUT six sorghum fields in 10 villages of Nalyuwa ward in Senanga district have been attacked by pests that have destroyed the crop. ZANIS reports that the pests which have been identified by the Department of Agriculture as stink bugs, are attacking the liquid part of the plant causing it to dry up. District Agriculture Coordinator (DACO), MukelabaiMwangala said the pests are controllable if farmers report to the department on time so that the affected fields are sprayed. Mr Mwangala said the pests have attacked sorghum for the first time and his officers managed to spray chemicals to control them. “Delaying to report about the pests is what has caused the major damage, farmers need to be alert and report any strange happenings in their fields,” he advised. He has however, commended farmers who have adhered to crop diversification in the district. And one of the affected farmers, Namasiku Ilishebo said they ventured in sorghum growing following the change in rainfall pattern which affects their maize crop. Ms Ilishebo said affected farmers need to be assisted with relief food as they are adversely affected by the pests which have destroyed their crops. – ZANIS. The Sun