Banana wilt disease hits Teso
Mar 29, 2007
AGRICULTURE ministry officials in Kenya are pointing an accusing finger at Uganda as the origin of the banana wilt disease that has attacked the country’s Teso District.
By Reuben Olita
in Nairobi
AGRICULTURE ministry officials in Kenya are pointing an accusing finger at Uganda as the origin of the banana wilt disease that has attacked the country’s Teso District.
The new district commissioner, Johnstone Mwirigi, sounded the warning on Friday during an agricultural field day at Ikapolok near Malaba.
He said the outbreak was of great concern as it threatened to spread to the neighbouring districts of Busia, Bungoma and Mt. Elgon.
Amagoro, Amukura and Chakol divisions were the most hit with more than 50% infection.
Only Angurai Division is safe, Mwirigi added.
With the situation getting out of control, the Kenya government has ordered the inspection of all materials coming from Uganda to curb the disease, which affects banana roots.
The agriculture ministry secretary, Simon Songa, said they would work with the Ugandan government and other stakeholders to combat the spread of the disease.
“We cannot allow this scenario to persist. We shall ensure it is managed once and for all.â€
He was addressing Teso residents, including the area Member of Parliament, Sospeter Ojaamong.
in Nairobi
AGRICULTURE ministry officials in Kenya are pointing an accusing finger at Uganda as the origin of the banana wilt disease that has attacked the country’s Teso District.
The new district commissioner, Johnstone Mwirigi, sounded the warning on Friday during an agricultural field day at Ikapolok near Malaba.
He said the outbreak was of great concern as it threatened to spread to the neighbouring districts of Busia, Bungoma and Mt. Elgon.
Amagoro, Amukura and Chakol divisions were the most hit with more than 50% infection.
Only Angurai Division is safe, Mwirigi added.
With the situation getting out of control, the Kenya government has ordered the inspection of all materials coming from Uganda to curb the disease, which affects banana roots.
The agriculture ministry secretary, Simon Songa, said they would work with the Ugandan government and other stakeholders to combat the spread of the disease.
“We cannot allow this scenario to persist. We shall ensure it is managed once and for all.â€
He was addressing Teso residents, including the area Member of Parliament, Sospeter Ojaamong.