Tanzanian researchers are making significant progress in developing disease-resistant banana varieties, offering hope to farmers whose livelihoods are threatened by the Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV). This breakthrough aims to ensure sustainable banana production in the country despite the ongoing virus outbreak.

BBTV, spread by banana aphids, causes Banana Bunchy Top Disease (BBTD), which severely stunts banana plants and leads to devastating yield losses. However, scientists at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) are taking proactive steps to combat the disease.

“To develop a long-term solution, researchers are screening 72 banana varieties from their parental breeding program for BBTV resistance.” said Happyness Mpanda, a scientist at IITA. “Those found to be resistant will advance to the banana product development phase.”

While the virus was initially confined to Kigoma, it has now spread to other regions, heightening the need for disease management strategies. In addition to breeding resistant varieties, experts are urging farmers to uproot and destroy infected banana plants to curb the spread.

While breeding resistant varieties takes time, it is the most sustainable solution. Meanwhile, farmers must uproot and destroy infected banana plants to curb the spread of the disease," Mpanda advised.

The initiative not only addresses Tanzania’s challenges but also contributes to Africa’s broader fight against BBTV, which has affected countries such as Angola, Burundi, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa. With continued research and collaboration, Tanzania is positioning itself as a leader in safeguarding banana production for future generations.