NICHOLAS A
Residents of Kitwe Town Council in Ntungamo District have raised alarm over a severe nematode infestation that has devastated their banana plantations, raising fears of potential food shortages in the area.
Saturday Mukasa Laban, a local resident, revealed that all three of his banana plantations have been destroyed by the pest. He called on agricultural experts to visit the community and provide guidance on controlling the infestation before it leads to more serious consequences.
“We need urgent support from agricultural specialists to teach us how to fight this problem, otherwise it could result in a major famine,” he said.
Similarly, Ndyamuhaki Julius from Runoni Village said the community has already begun feeling the impact, with limited access to staple foods. “Our plantations were heavily affected, and we have had to rely on other foods like cassava and potatoes, which are not always easy to find,” he explained.
The outbreak has also affected local trade. Amos Oworinawe, a banana trader in the town council, said the infestation has disrupted his business. “People we used to buy matoke from are no longer able to supply it, which has greatly affected our trade,” he noted.
Residents are also experiencing economic strain. Tumusiime Kinubi of Kabobo Ward highlighted that many families are struggling to pay school fees after losing their primary source of income. He described the symptoms of the infestation, including root loss, weak plants, and eventual collapse, noting that replanting efforts are proving difficult.
Confirming the situation, Peter Hategyeka Munyampeta, Mayor of Kitwe Town Council, acknowledged the presence of nematodes in the area. He assured residents that agricultural extension workers would be mobilized to visit farms, offer guidance, and help contain the infestation.
