Bloemfontein - Madagascar off the coast of Africa, is currently knee deep in an almost biblical plague of locusts.

The capital of Antananarivo was recently taken over by a massive swarm of locusts. Unfortunately there's not much the citizens can do besides wait for them to leave.

The entire island has had a severe locust problem for the last three years, according to various media reports. They've wiped out crops, and are threatening the livelihoods of millions of people.

According to the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) about $43.9 million for the three consecutive locust control campaigns are required in order to contain the situation.

Reports indicate a severe heatwave is the reason for the locusts not leaving. Madagascar is apparently along their migration route, which helps explain the issue.

In 2012 the government authorized an aggressive pesticide campaign to try to control the locust population. However, the pesticides have failed to stop the insects from breeding.

Check out these pictures of the plague.

Source: FAO.org