Socio-economic impact of Anacridium melanorhodon melanorhodon outbreaks on local gum arabic producers in North Kordofan, Sudan

The study was conducted in North Kordofan, Sudan during 2012/2013 season. The study aimed at assessing the socio-economic impacts of the tree locust, Anacridium melanorhodon melanorhodon on gum arabic producers. A key informant questionnaire was designed to interview gum Arabic producers in three villages in addition to focus group discussions in each village. A total of 100 producers were interviewed. SPSS was used for data analysis. Results revealed that Gum revenue is used to buy drinking water for 65 % of the producers. Of those interviewed, 98 % of the producers classified the tree locust as the most important pest, where 96 % do not tap their gardens during outbreaks. Further, 55% of the producers estimated the loss between 50% to 75%, causing 66% drop in their revenue.The study concluded that income from gum production is a key pillar for household economy, and Tree locust infestations has negative socio-economic consequences and significantly influences livelihood.