Concluding discussion

Abstract

R. Le Berre ( Onchocerciasis Control Programme, Ouagadougou, Upper Volta ) The blackflies have now entered the club of the migrant pests through the widest possible door: here. All those concerned with tropical migrant pests, from blackflies to birds, face the same problems. Our common final objective is not the eradication of any of our enemies but their control, in order to prevent outbreaks in pest numbers or in disease transmission: and here I imply not only onchocerciasis but also diseases like sleeping sickness, which is not at all a maladie du passé , as we say, but certainly a maladie de l'avenir . Our strategies are all fundamentally based on the fact that the species we are fighting are mobile. Our tactics, based more and more on advanced technology, are very similar, with the uses of aircraft for prospecting and treatment, and of meteorology, radio and radar, for example; and in logistics we all have to seek improved mobility and flexibility. From discussions with other colleagues, it is clear that, without thinking about any common task force capable of dealing simultaneously with our different needs in different areas at the same time, we ought to be much better coordinated than we presently are. O ur fundamental requirements for data like those of meteorology - wind systems, precipitation - should be better integrated, as should our communications systems; and exchanges of data, experience and ideas should be increased. A final common problem is that of sustaining the continuing effort which is still needed after the initial achievement of an encouraging measure of success. You locust people had this experience a long time ago; we in the onchocerciasis programme are now starting to feel it; and this is one more reason why I am very satisfied to have been able to participate in this meeting.