BSV Banana Leaf © University of Greenwich

The Crop Protection Programme of the UK’s Department for International Development has supported recent research into important pests and diseases of banana in Uganda. Banana streak virus disease (BSV) was one of those identified as a priority for research by Uganda’s National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO). BSV is a complex disease that can cause serious yield loss and is very difficult to control. NRI collaborated with NARO and the University of Reading to study the dynamics of BSV spread and to develop improved management strategies

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Jerome Kubiriba © University of Greenwich

NARO’s Jerome Kubiriba conducted detailed studies on disease spread and his colleague Charles Murekezi researched the effect of BSV on banana growth and yield. Jerome Kubiriba’s work formed part of a PhD programme with NRI-University of Greenwich. Charles Murekezi had a similar arrangement with the University of Reading. Their research contributed to the development of more cost-effective and sustainable strategies for reducing the spread and impact of BSV. The collaboration with NRI and the University of Reading helped to build capacity within NARO’s banana programme. Following the successful completion of t28 February, 2008ior positions within the programme.