Abstract:
Xanthomonas campestris pv.musacrearum causes Banana wilt
disease (BXW disease) which occurs at different epidemic phases in East and
Central Africa (ECA). In the endemic areas, there are many banana fields with
over 80% BXW disease incidence. This study aimed at rehabilitating banana
fields heavily infected with BXW disease in Uganda, Kenya and DR. Congo.
Farmer managed trials were established in BXW disease hotspots in western
Kenya and DR. Congo, while in Uganda, similar trials were established at
community level i.e. clusters of at least 200 heavily infected banana fields. The
control options evaluated included single stem removal, suspension of pruning in
affected fields, male bud removal and disinfection of tools with fire or Sodium
hypochlorite. Data was collected on the proportion of affected fields (BXW
disease prevalence), BXW disease incidence and the number of banana bunches
sold at 3-month intervals. BXW disease incidence was reduced by over 80% in
11 months in Kenya and DR. Congo, resulting in yield recovery by up to 70%
within one year. In Uganda, the proportion of farmers that effectively controlled
BXW disease increased 5% to 60% within a year in some hotspots.
Consequently banana sales recovered up to 30% in some hotspots. This study
demonstrates that it is possible to effectively control BXW disease within 12 months in previously severely infected fields in various areas of ECA