Since it started on 02 October, 2023, the first phase of the aerial spraying program has primarily focused on the Amhara region. In mid-October 2023, a local media outlet reported the unintended consequences of this redirection in the Amhara region. Agdew Molla, director of Amhara Agricultural Bureau, explained the significant losses in the North Shewa, South Wollo, North Wollo, and Oromo Special Zone areas resulting from postponed treatments. However, he stated that 265 liters of chemicals have been applied aerially across 132.5 hectares to protect crops from further red-billed quelea damage. According to Negussie, aerial operations in the Amhara region will resume as scheduled on 21 October, 2023.

Source: Ethiopian News October 20, 2023 14:02 UTC