Operational use of Drones for Desert Locust Monitoring

The Regional Commissions for controlling the Desert Locust Control in the Central Region (CRC) and the Western Region (CLCPRO) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) support the use of remotely piloted aircraft (drones) as an innovative and effective tool within the framework of early warning and desert locust control strategies. This approach comes in response to the increasing challenges posed by climate change and the expanding scope of outbreaks. These technologies contribute to enhancing the ability to accurately monitor vegetation cover in remote and hard-to-reach areas, providing real-time data that supports quick and effective decision-making regarding the locust situation in those regions. Some member states have already begun conducting field trials using various models of drones, with technical support from FAO, as part of efforts to transition toward smart digital solutions for controlling transboundary pests.