Tools for the management of the banana bunchy top disease in small holder systems

Managing invasive pests and diseases requires rapid investment in new connections, tools, and knowledge on the new invader. Banana bunchy top disease (BBTD) has been expanding recently throughout the banana and plantain growing areas in Africa. As host resistance is still unknown among edible bananas, several research activities have been carried-out to inform the management of this disease. Some new approaches were found useful, if backed with the sound knowledge of the disease. We evaluate the new approaches and suggest options for improving BBTD control in Africa. The complete uprooting of the infected plants and healthy seed sourcing were clearly important steps in BBTD management. Landscape connectivity and altitude perhaps contribute to the localized infestations seen in many countries. Further research on BBTD management could provide an opportunity for the improvement of existing strategies.