Kenya steps up efforts to prevent the introduction of Fusarium TR4

In Kenya, bananas are a crucial crop for both food and income. Of particular concern is the threat of Fusarium TR4 being introduced into the country.

 

Local media are reporting that KEPHIS (Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service) and other agricultural authorities are on high alert to protect banana production.

 

A simulation exercise to detect Fusarium TR4 was recently held in collaboration with KEPHIS, IPPC and the FAO. This was the 1st simulation exercise in Africa aimed at building emergency preparedness capacity to manage phytosanitary risks.

 

Fusarium TR4 has been identified as a priority pest for the countries of COMESA, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Burundi, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Rwanda, Seychelles, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe).

 

‘The eradication of Fusarium TR4 is not technically feasible’, emphasised Hamisi Williams, deputy representative at FAO Kenya. ‘Exclusion remains the main approach to maintaining its absence, and prevention measures are crucial to delaying its introduction into new territories’.