Tanzania scientists work to develop BBTV-resistant bananas
Researchers are testing banana varieties to curb the destructive virus threatening East Africa’s banana crops.
TANZANIA – Researchers at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Tanzania have intensified their efforts to develop a banana variety resistant to the Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV).
The initiative is part of the “Combating Banana Bunchy Top Virus in East Africa” project, which aims to control the disease that has significantly impacted banana production in the region.
With support from the United States Department of Agriculture – Foreign Agricultural Services (USDA-FAS), IITA is working on a strategy to curb the spread of BBTV.
The virus, which is transmitted by banana aphids, has caused severe losses, reducing banana yields by 70 to 90% in affected areas. If left unchecked, entire banana plantations can become unproductive within a few seasons.
IITA scientist Happyness Mpanda told The Citizen that “the research institute launched a research initiative to breed BBTV-resistant banana seedlings, which have been sent to Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for screening to determine their resistance to the virus.”
She further explained that 72 banana varieties from the parental breeding program are undergoing screening. If any show resistance, they will be tested in experimental farm trials in the DRC.
The virus was first reported in East Africa in 2021 and has since spread rapidly, particularly in Tanzania and Uganda. In 2024, new cases were confirmed in areas that had previously been unaffected.
This rapid spread has raised concerns among farmers and researchers, prompting urgent action to prevent further damage to banana production, a staple crop for millions in the region.
Farmers in affected areas have already reported substantial losses, leading to increased banana prices and economic strain on households. The disease’s impact extends beyond individual farmers, affecting food security and market stability across East Africa.
The ongoing research is part of a broader regional strategy to address BBTV. The project also focuses on raising awareness among farmers, conducting delimitation surveys, and strengthening disease detection and control measures.
Collaboration between governments, agricultural institutions, and international partners is seen as key to developing a long-term solution.
The initiative aligns with wider efforts to safeguard banana farming in East Africa, ensuring that the region’s food supply and economy remain stable.
Scientists remain hopeful that with continued research and farmer education, BBTV-resistant banana varieties will offer a sustainable solution to the crisis.
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