The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) is currently facilitating a simulation exercise and training session focusing on the Fusarium TR4 banana disease, a significant threat to global banana production capable of causing up to 100 percent yield loss. This event gathers the phytosanitary community from COMESA countries and beyond, aiming to bolster preventive measures against Fusarium TR4 and enhance preparedness for potential outbreaks. The disease, while not present in Kenya, poses a considerable risk to banana and plantain farms worldwide.
During the conference's opening, Dr. Paul Rono, Principal Secretary of the State Department of Agriculture, emphasized the necessity for the African continent to address plant pests and diseases, which can reduce yields by up to 40 percent. He highlighted the various threats to plant health, including cross-border pest transfer, human activities, and climate change, and their negative impacts on agriculture, biodiversity, and the economy. Dr. Rono also acknowledged the importance of phytosanitary measures for Kenya's economy and the achievements in strengthening phytosanitary systems through KEPHIS.
Hamisi Williams from the Food Authority Organization of the UN (FAO) Kenya pointed out the economic and food security risks posed by Fusarium TR4, urging for serious engagement in the training to enhance early detection and response capabilities. Prof. Theophilus Mutui, KEPHIS Managing Director, mentioned Kenya's existing struggle with Fusarium wilt disease and the significance of the training in addressing other pest concerns. The simulation exercise includes visits to key facilities like the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and the Plant Quarantine Station at Muguga, highlighting the importance of bananas as a staple food and economic resource in Kenya and the East African region.
Source: kenyanews.go.ke