Prioritization of invasive alien species with the potential to threaten agriculture and biodiversity in Kenya through horizon scanning

• DOI: 10.1007/s10530-022-02824-4
• Publication Date: 2022-05-31T04:02:36Z
• Authors: Joseph Mulema; Roger Day; Winnie Nunda; Komivi Senyo Akutse; Anani Y. Bruce; Sospeter Gachamba; Solveig Haukeland; Ruth Kahuthia-Gathu; Staline Kibet; Asenath Koech; Thomas Kosiom; Douglas Watuku Miano; George Momanyi; Lucy Kananu Murungi; James Wanjohi Mut...; Julianna Mwangi; Maina Mwangi; Nicholas Mwendo; John Huria Nderitu; Johnson Nyasani; Miriam Otipa; Sarah Wambugu; Eric Were; Fernadis Makale; Laura Doughty; Steve Edgington; Ivan Rwomushana; Marc Kenis
• Keywords: Biosecurity; Prioritization; Time horizon

Abstract Invasive alien species (IAS) rank among the most significant drivers of extinction and ecosystem degradation resulting in impacts on socio-economic development. The recent exponential spread IAS Africa is attributed to poor border biosecurity due porous borders that have failed prevent initial introductions. In addition, countries lack adequate information about potential invasions limited capacity reduce risk invasions. Horizon scanning an approach prioritises risks through rapid assessments. A group 28 subject matter experts used adapted methodology assess 1700 a 5-point scale for likelihood entry establishment, impact, impact biodiversity. individual scores were combined according their overall country. Confidence was recorded 3-point scale. This resulted priority list 120 (70 arthropods, 9 nematodes, 15 bacteria, 19 fungi/chromist, 1 viroid, 6 viruses). Options mitigation such as full pest analysis detection surveys suggested prioritised while which no immediate action suggested, added plant health register recommendation made regularly monitor change risk. By prioritising risks, horizon guides resource allocation interventions are likely very useful National Plant Protection Organisations other relevant stakeholders.