Banana Bunchy Top Virus detected in border district

Banana Bunchy Top Virus (BBTV) is a devastating pathogen of banana and plantain, transmitted by the banana aphid. A recent detection in a border district raises concern for nearby banana-growing regions. Symptoms to watch for: - Dark green streaks on leaf veins and midribs. - Bunched, rosette-like appearance of emerging leaves. - Stunted plant growth and shortened leaf petioles. Management actions: - Remove and destroy infected plants, including the corm. - Control banana aphid populations with appropriate measures. - Use virus-free planting material from certified sources. - Establish monitoring in adjacent districts to detect early spread. WAVE is working with regional authorities to strengthen surveillance and contain the outbreak.