Banana bunchy top virus outbreak confirmed in Kasese

The National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) has confirmed an outbreak of the Banana Bunchy Top Virus in Kasese District, southwestern Uganda. This plant disease is reported to have originated from the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. Authorities warn that it could significantly impact farmers in Kasese if its spread is not immediately controlled.

Farmers in Kasese District are facing imminent famine due to a plant disease outbreak threatening their livelihoods. The Banana Bunchy Top Virus has begun affecting banana plantations in the area, causing substantial losses. Many farmers are unaware of the disease and its management; upon noticing infected plants, they cut them down, unintentionally stimulating new growth, which further spreads the disease. The virus spreads through infected planting materials and insects, making it challenging to contain.

This disease was first reported in the West Nile Sub-region in 2020 and has since spread to Kasese. It is believed to have crossed over from Congo, facilitated by the movement of planting materials. It has now affected about five sub-counties, devastating farms that depend on banana production. Authorities emphasize that the rapid containment of this disease is crucial. Unlike bacterial infections, this viral disease is difficult to detect early, making its impact severe once established.

Controlling the Banana Bunchy Top Virus is currently limited to removing infected plants and managing vectors. This process involves uprooting entire stools to prevent further spread. Farmers are advised to remove infected leaves and spray the remaining parts with a soap-water solution, as the virus is transmitted through insects.

In response to this crisis, a non-governmental organization dedicated to empowering smallholder farmers and helping them adapt to climate change has opened a branch in Kasese. This organization aims to provide extension services and guidance to farmers on eradicating crop diseases like the Banana Bunchy Top Virus. They have developed a mobile application to assist extension workers, seed suppliers, and farmers in identifying and managing pests and diseases affecting various crops in their gardens.