Biosecurity responses to fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Ghana and Australia

This paper, published in NeoBiota, uses a comparative narrative synthesis to examine biosecurity and management responses to fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in Ghana and Australia. 

Australia’s response sits within a nationally coordinated biosecurity system with established legal frameworks, structured decision-making for emergency plant pests and strong diagnostic and extension capability. Even so, Fall armyworm (FAW) established in Australia in 2020 and the national response moved quickly from prevention and eradication assessment to ongoing management. Ghana’s response has been more decentralised and community-based, relying heavily on farmer reporting, extension services and development of partner support. 

Comparisons across both countries point to practical priorities for improving preparedness and reducing downstream impacts on production and food system stability. These priorities include stronger early-warning and reporting pathways, as well as clearer escalation triggers for rapid mobilisation of resources for pest management. They also include sustained support for integrated pest management programmes to reduce insecticide resistance, use of biological control and local research capacity.

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