Operational use of Drones for Desert Locust Monitoring

The FAO Desert Locust Commissions support used drones for Desert Locust monitoring within Desert Locust early warning and preventive control strategy. The use of drones will improve locust monitoring, early warning and rapid control. FAO Commissions for Controlling the Desert Locust in the Western Region (CLCPRO) and Central Region (CRC), in collaboration with drone supplier, conducted on the job training for trainees of both Commission to acquire all theoretical and practical field knowledge necessary for the operation of drones, including the proper handling of all equipment. In addition, they provided training on drone maintenance that covered the usual drone maintenance procedures to ensure the reliability of the drone and perform periodic maintenance.