IITA releases 10-year strategy for managing invasive species in Africa

Prevention, early detection and control make up the three-pronged approach that Africa is taking on to manage the menace of invasive species on the continent. As the climate continues to change, invasive species also continue to increase and spread globally. Countries cannot wave off a global challenge individually hence the need for a continent-wide strategy. This strategy was developed to respond to the invasive species challenge by linking conservation of biodiversity to human health. Its overall objective is to effectively guide and coordinate prevention and eradication actions at continental, regional and national levels.

Invasive species pose a huge global threat, both in terms of biodiversity and the cost to agriculture, trade, tourism and development. They disproportionately affect communities in poor rural areas; people who depend on natural resources and healthy ecosystems to make a living. For example, invasive insect pests and diseases can significantly affect agricultural productivity and production.

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