Cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) poses a serious threat to food security, especially in regions that rely heavily on cassava.
Characterised by root rot and browning, the disease can destroy entire crops. Early detection and management are crucial to protect farmers’ livelihoods and ensure sustainable cassava production.
CBSD spreads through infected cuttings and by whiteflies, tiny insects that feed on cassava leaves and transmit the virus.
According to Seperanza Kenyena, a famous cassava grower in Isingro district, one of the best ways to prevent the disease is to begin with clean planting materials.
“I always get cuttings from certified suppliers. If you plant what you don’t know, you may be starting your own disaster,” she says.
Seperanza inspects her gardens regularly and removes any suspicious-looking plants before they affect the rest.
Solomon Senoga, a commercial farmer in Luweero who has over 20 acres of cassava, says farmers must observe early symptoms.
These include yellowing of leaves, narrowing of leaf blades, and brown streaks on stems and roots.
Senoga adds that crop rotation is essential.
“Avoid planting cassava in the same field every season. If you rest the land or grow other crops like legumes, you reduce the chance of disease buildup,” he explains.
Chemical control is also a supportive measure, especially in managing whiteflies, the main carriers of the virus.
Geoffrey Natigo, a pesticide dealer in Mubende, recommends using insecticides that target whiteflies early in the season.
“If you reduce the population of whiteflies in your garden, you reduce the chances of the virus spreading,” he explains.
Natigo advises farmers to spray in the early morning or late evening when the insects are most active.
Farmers should also avoid sharing cassava cuttings from neighbours whose crops show any signs of disease.
Always use resistant varieties if available, such as NAROCASS1 or NASE14, which have shown some tolerance to CBSD.
