Nicholas A
Residents in Nyakyera town council, Ntungamo district, are expressing concern over the impact of Banana Bacterial Wilt on banana farming in their community.
According to locals, the widespread disease is leading them to cut down infected banana plants, raising fears of an imminent famine. Seith Ruzira, a resident of Ngomba ward, highlighted that he has had to cut down at least seven banana plants, causing worries about potential challenges such as food scarcity and the inability to afford his children’s school fees. He emphasized the need for authorities to address the issue promptly and provide support to Program for the Development of Marginalized (PDM) beneficiaries dedicated to using funds for enhancing banana cultivation.
An anonymous agriculture officer from Nyakyera town council acknowledged the presence of banana bacterial wilt in the area. He urged farmers to follow recommended measures to combat the disease, particularly emphasizing the importance of promptly cutting down all affected plants to limit the spread of the bacteria.
The officer recommended the use of chemicals like Jick or other bactericidal substances, as well as employing controlled fire after removing a diseased banana plant.
