Proceedings

Abstract

Arising from the recommendations made by the national delegates to the meeting of the Working Group on the Implementation of the African Regional Pest Management Research and Development Network (PESTNET) for Integrated Control of Crop and Livestock Pests, held in Nairobi 22-26 June 1986, the first Annual PESTNET Conference was organised from 27- 30 April 1987. The meeting had several purposes. Firstly, it was to review the progress made by the Network, and the proposed workplans for the following year. Secondly, it was to assist the PESTNET Secretariat to focus on the operations of the Network. Thirdly, and most importantly, it was to ensure effective national involvement and collective responsibility in steering the Network's performance. PESTNET involves several tiers in its planning, organisation, implementation and the monitoring of its responsiveness to member country concerns in order to be as effective as possible. These tiers include an Interim Steering Committee which will operate until national delegates elect the Steering Committee at their 1988 Annual PESTNET Conference. This Committee advises the Network's Coordinating Unit on behalf of the member countries and reports to the Annual PESTNET Conference. The Steering Committee also acts as custodian of the interests of member countries and institutions. At this first annual meeting of national delegates, a detailed progress report and the initial programme of activities were presented and thoroughly discussed. The progress made in the sector of information exchange was noted with satisfaction by the participants, and the proposed collaborative arrangements for sharing information and scientific personnel among national programmes were very well received. The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) and the PESTNET Secretariat were commended for their efforts in ensuring effective functioning of the· Network. They were urged to develop a highly detailed long-term projected programme so that national governments and development institutions are provided with a realistic calendar of future PESTNET activities.