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Agriculture Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, John Mulongoti, has inspected ongoing construction works at the International Red Locust Control Organization for Central and Southern Africa (IRLCO-CSA) facility in Ndola, expressing confidence that the project will be completed within the shortest possible time.
Mulongoti, who toured the site on Friday, said he was satisfied with the progress made and expected the facility to be ready for occupation before the end of the year.
He said the government remained committed to ensuring timely delivery of the project, describing it as strategic not only for Zambia but for the broader Central and Southern African region.
“This is an important institution for our country and the region. We are optimistic that the works will be concluded before the close of the year so that the organisation can fully occupy the premises,” he said.
According to a statement issued on Friday, Mulongoti said the upgraded facility would enhance the organisation’s operational efficiency, strengthen surveillance systems and improve coordination in the fight against red locust outbreaks.
He noted that pest control remained critical for safeguarding national food security, as red locust invasions can cause extensive crop and pasture damage if not detected and managed early.
Mulongoti said the government was committed to supporting institutions that play a central role in protecting Zambia’s agricultural sector.
He said completion of the infrastructure would provide a conducive working environment for experts and improve response mechanisms to pest threats across the region.
Zambia hosts the regional pest control body in Ndola, positioning the country as a key hub for red locust monitoring, forecasting and control efforts in Central and Southern Africa.
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