Armyworm. [Photo/BBC]
The government, through the ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Fisheries has issued a national alert on the invasion of fall armyworm in several counties.
These are Baringo, Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Kericho, Nakuru, Nandi, Narok, Siaya,and Uasin Gishu.
The armyworm causes massive destruction of maize, wheat, millet, pasture grass, kales cabbages, legumes and spinach.
In response to the menace, the government has constituted a multinational team to offer technical guidance in the fight against this worm.
The army worm caterpillars are green, brown or black in colour and is a ferocious feeder. The worm feeds on the outer foliage making large and ragged holes.
Attacks on maize at early stages can result into 100 percent crop loss if no control measures are taken.