By Umar Nsubuga
Bananas are not just a staple crop, they are a lifeline, feeding millions and driving household incomes across the country.
However, this critical resource faces a growing threat from a devastating banana fungus that is ravaging plantations.
The disease is slashing yields, leaving farmers grappling with significant financial losses. As the fungus spreads in some parts of the country, the survival of countless farming families hangs in the balance.
For those who depend on bananas for food and income, understanding the nature of this menace and adopting effective management strategies is not only crucial but urgent. It’s a fight for livelihoods and food security.
Deborah Nabatanzi, a farmer from Kangave village in Luwero district, knows this struggle all too well. Her once-thriving banana plantation, which was her family’s primary source of income, suffered severe losses when a fungal disease struck.
“I used to harvest over 30 bunches of bananas every month, but when the fungus hit, I could barely get 10,” she recounts.
“The plants looked sickly, with yellowing leaves and shrivelled stems. Eventually, many of them died.”
The impact of banana fungus
The culprit behind Nabatanzi’s plight is a notorious banana fungal disease, commonly known as Banana Wilt or Fusarium Wilt.
The disease attacks the plant’s vascular system, hindering water and nutrient absorption. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting leaves, stunted growth, and eventual plant death.
“For a small-scale farmer like me, the losses were devastating,” says Nabatanzi.
“I had invested in fertilisers and labour, expecting a good harvest, but instead, I incurred debts.”
Beyond individual losses, fungal diseases in bananas pose a significant threat to food security and the agricultural economy. Many farmers like Nabatanzi are ill-equipped to tackle such challenges, making expert guidance crucial.
Expert advice
Henry Sekyewa, an agronomist, explains that controlling banana fungal diseases requires a multi-faceted approach. Prevention, early detection, and proper management practices are key to minimizing losses.
“First, it’s important to understand that fungal spores can spread through soil, water, and farming tools,” Sekyewa says.
“Farmers need to be vigilant and adopt practices that limit the spread of the disease.”
Protect your banana plantation
Sekyewa recommends planting disease-resistant banana varieties, which are better equipped to withstand fungal attacks.
“Consult with agricultural extension officers to get certified resistant planting materials,” he advises.
Practice crop rotation
Sekyewa says continuous banana planting in the same area depletes soil nutrients and increases vulnerability to diseases. Rotating bananas with other crops can break the cycle of infection.
Maintain clean farming practices
Tools used in infected areas should be sterilised to prevent spreading the fungus to healthy plants. Removing and properly disposing of infected plants is also essential, he explains.
Improve drainage and soil health
Poor drainage creates conditions conducive to fungal growth. Sekyewa suggests farmers invest in proper drainage systems and enrich the soil with organic matter to boost plant immunity.
Use fungicides wisely
While fungicides can be effective in managing outbreaks, they should be used sparingly and according to expert recommendations to avoid resistance buildup in the fungus.
For commercial banana farmers, Sekyewa stresses the importance of proactive farm management.
“Have a routine inspection plan to spot early signs of disease. Train your workers to identify and report issues immediately,” he says.
He also emphasises the role of collective action.
“Farmers in the same area should form cooperatives to share knowledge and resources. This way, they can collectively combat the spread of the fungus and secure better outcomes.”
