Communication approaches for sustainable management of banana Xanthomonas wilt in East and Central Africa.

Abstract

Abstract The East and Central African region has been devastated by a banana Xanthomonas wilt epidemic caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. musacearum. Xanthomonas wilt is widespread in Uganda, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania, and has been confirmed as present in Burundi since late 2010. The disease causes yield losses of up to 80-100%, especially in ABB banana-based production systems in central Uganda and eastern DR Congo. Currently available information indicates that all cultivars in the region succumb to the disease and this, combined with the speed at which the epidemic spreads to new areas, threatens at least 30 million people who depend on the banana crop for their livelihoods. Recommended control measures for the disease include the destruction and disposal of infected plants/mats, disinfecting tools used in the plantation, using clean planting materials, early removal of male buds and quarantine measures. Raising awareness of all stakeholders along the production-to-consumption chain, by empowering them with the knowledge and skills for diagnosis and management of the disease, is seen as an integral component of the intervention strategy to control the epidemic and restore banana productivity. Several communication tools have been used to disseminate information for the management of Xanthomonas wilt. These include conventional tools (radio campaigns, videos, training by institutions, billboards, posters, brochures, newspapers and television) and participatory development communication approaches. While these approaches can contribute to raising awareness among stakeholders, and hence slow down the disease, no single approach can provide a lasting solution. This paper discusses the different communication approaches currently being used in the region to control the disease; and how integration of approaches may be the most effective and sustainable option for the management of Xanthomonas wilt in East and Central Africa.