**Fatshimétrie**
A threat looms over the harvests of market gardeners in the commune of N’sele in Kinshasa. Armyworms have invaded the corn fields, endangering the region’s crops and food security. Faced with this critical situation, market gardeners are urgently appealing to the authorities for help and to protect their crops.
For two months, armyworms have multiplied exponentially, devastating more than 50 hectares of corn fields. Djemy Dilolo, a market gardener affected by this agricultural disaster, expresses her distress and concern about the survival of her crops. Without rapid intervention, all the harvests could be destroyed, leading to considerable financial losses for these women involved in agriculture.
The lack of technical and financial support is making the situation worse. Agricultural technicians, usually present to advise and guide market gardeners, are conspicuous by their absence. This negligence leaves women alone to face this scourge, facing potential losses that directly impact their livelihoods and development.
Agriculture, the country’s economic pillar, is severely disrupted by this armyworm crisis. Women market gardeners, responsible for the majority of agricultural activities, see their work and efforts compromised by uncontrollable natural events. The need for urgent government intervention to stem this threat is crucial to preserve the food security of the local population and maintain the economic balance of the region.
It is imperative that concrete measures be taken quickly to combat armyworms and support market gardeners in safeguarding their crops. Family farming, at the heart of the Congolese economy, deserves special attention and continued support to ensure its sustainability and contribution to the country’s prosperity.
In conclusion, the armyworm crisis in N’sele is a call for solidarity, action and responsibility. It is time for the authorities to respond to this urgent call and provide support to the market gardeners who are struggling to preserve their harvests and ensure their livelihoods. The future of Congolese agriculture depends on the ability of all stakeholders to join forces and act in a coordinated manner to overcome the challenges that stand in the way of sustainable agricultural development.