Experts in Tanzania's banana sector are collaborating in Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, to devise a strategy against the banana bunchy top virus (BBTV). Dr. Ben Ngowi, acting director general of the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), announced that the meeting includes representatives from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other partner organizations.
BBTV has affected the northeastern region, southern highlands, Lake Victoria zone, and the western zone, where bananas are a key staple. Ngowi emphasized the need for a collective strategy involving the community, development stakeholders, quality regulators, and TPHPA. "After formulating this strategy we will present it to the public for review and improvement," he stated.
The strategy aims to control the disease, particularly in seed transportation. Ngowi noted the virus's impact in Buhigwe District, Kigoma, prompting the need for a strategy to mitigate losses. TPHPA has been raising awareness among farmers and the public, alongside other stakeholders in the value chain.
Efforts include uprooting and destroying infected plants and using herbicides. STREPHIT, a project administered by FAO in collaboration with the European Union (EU), has been crucial to these efforts. Dr. Monday Ahonsi, FAO plant protection technical advisor, emphasized eradicating BBTV in Tanzania, stating FAO's commitment to the EU.
Ahonsi noted, "BBTV poses a significant threat to banana production, a staple crop for millions of Tanzanians. FAO remains determined to work with local and international partners to achieve the complete eradication of BBTV and foster a healthier and more resilient agricultural future for Tanzania."
Source: IPP Media