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The Department of Agriculture in the Free State has cautioned farmers in the province of the armyworm out-break, and has since called on farmers to report any detection of the Lepidoptera.
The department says it has received over 70 cases of armyworms from farmers across the province; most of the cases come from towns in the Xhariep District, including Petrusburg, Luckhoff, Jacobsdal, Oppermansgronde, Koffiefontein and Fauriesmith. Other cases were reported from towns in Lejweleputswa District which include; Boshoff, Dealesville, Hertzogville, Hoopstad and Bothaville.
Soutpan in Mangaung Metro also reported cases of the outbreak. The Department of Agriculture in the Free State Province also confirmed in a statement today, 31 March 2025, that new cases have been reported from Bultfontein, Hoopstad and Brandfort in the Letjweleputswa District.
“The Provincial and National Departments continues to assist farmers in affected areas with distribution of chemicals and sprayers,” said the department in a statement.
Farmers are further requested to continue to be vigilant and to immediately report detection of armyworms to their local extension officer and or the following District Directors:
Xhariep District: Mr Shadrack Cezula on 081 038 6504
Letjweleputswa District: Mr Thabiso Letsoara on 066 220 1167
Mangaung Metro: Mr George Madiba on 064 063 6194
