FAO recognizes the value of, and attaches a high importance to the continuance of existing taxonomie identification services. It considers it desirable that there should be an increase in the number of institutions qualified both to provide authoritative identification and to conduct taxonomie research on pests of agricultural significance. Regrettably, direct support to taxonomie identification services in general cannot be provided by FAO. As components of ongoing projects, identifications and relevant taxonomie research can be financed in certain instances. Preference is given to the development of a self-help capability through production of identification keys and pictorial guides, in-depth taxonomie studies and training, rather than simply paying for routine identifications.

The recent history of initiatives in support of tropical insect taxonomy and the current status of the insect collection resources of Africa are reviewed with special emphasis on the development of the Department of Entomology, National Museums of Kenya as a regional centre for insect biosystematic services, training and research. Specific proposals are offered for the future development of such centres.