Dangerous Worms and Insects Threaten Dry-Season Sweet Potato Farmers in Kaduna
By Ibrahima Yakubu, Kaduna
Sweet potato farmers in Kaduna State, located in northwestern Nigeria, are raising alarm over the increasing damage caused by worms and harmful insects, which have severely impacted this year’s dry-season harvest. The farmers warn that if urgent action is not taken, the infestation could lead to significant losses, affecting their livelihoods and food supply in the state.
During a recent field visit by science and environmental journalists to several sweet potato farms along the riverbanks of Kaduna, farmers expressed deep frustration over the infestation. They described how the pests attack sweet potato tubers, reducing both quality and yield.
“We are facing a serious challenge this year. These worms bore into the potatoes, making them unfit for sale in the markets. Many of us are being forced to sell at very low prices or risk total losses,” lamented Abdullahi Musa, a farmer in the region.
The infestation has also led to an unusual trend: large quantities of sweet potatoes are now being sold cheaply along the riverbanks in Kaduna. Farmers, desperate to salvage whatever they can, are offloading damaged tubers at reduced prices to local retailers and consumers. Despite the rising cost of food across Nigeria due to inflation, these potatoes remain relatively affordable.
Expert Concerns and Possible Solutions
Agricultural experts warn that the continued spread of these pests could worsen food insecurity, especially for low-income families who rely on sweet potatoes as a staple food.
Dr. Amina Bala, an agricultural scientist specializing in crop protection, explained that dry-season farming, which heavily depends on irrigation, can create favorable conditions for certain pests to thrive.
“These worms are likely sweet potato weevils (Cylas formicarius), which can cause up to 90% yield loss if not controlled. Their larvae tunnel into the tubers, making them unmarketable and unfit for consumption,” Dr. Bala explained.
She advised farmers to adopt integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including:
- Crop Rotation: Planting different crops seasonally to disrupt the life cycle of pests.
- Biological Control: Using natural predators such as parasitic wasps to reduce worm populations.
- Proper Storage Techniques: Storing harvested potatoes in well-ventilated areas to prevent post-harvest infestation.
- Application of Safe Insecticides: Using environmentally friendly pesticides to control the pest population without harming soil health.
Farmers Call for Government Intervention
In response to the crisis, local farmers are appealing to the Kaduna State government and agricultural agencies to step in with urgent interventions. They are requesting support in the form of pesticides, improved seedlings resistant to pests, and training on pest control measures.
“We need government intervention because we cannot fight these pests alone. Many of us depend entirely on farming for our livelihood, and if we keep losing our crops, it will affect our families and the economy,” said Yusuf Ibrahim, another farmer in the region.
The Kaduna State Ministry of Agriculture is yet to release an official statement on the matter. However, agricultural extension officers in the region have acknowledged the concerns and assured farmers that measures will be taken to address the issue.
The Importance of Sweet Potatoes in Nigeria
Sweet potatoes remain one of the most affordable and accessible staple foods in Nigerian markets, particularly for the poor in both rural and urban areas. The crop thrives in warm temperatures above 24°C, but temperatures below 15°C can hinder tuber development while promoting excessive fibrous root growth.
Given the economic importance of sweet potatoes, stakeholders emphasize the need for proactive pest control measures to sustain production levels. Without swift action, both farmers and consumers could face negative consequences, including financial losses and reduced food availability.
As farmers wait for support, many are taking personal initiatives to curb the spread of the pests, hoping to salvage what remains of this season’s harvest. However, unless long-term solutions are implemented, Kaduna's sweet potato farmers may continue to battle this recurring challenge in future planting seasons.
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