Filbert Kavia

Impact of Banana Bacterial Wilt Disease in Tanzania: Effects on Household's Income and Food Security Filbert Kavia

Kagera region were relatively better off in terms of living standards compared to other areas in Tanzania. This was attributed to good income from the sale of coffee, and food stability from banana. Early 2006 the outbreak of banana bacterial wilt disease in Kagera region threatens banana production hence affects household food security and income. Independent t-test was done to verify the differences in the variables. Results on banana yield reveals that, there were significant differences in mean yields of banana between affected and unaffected households. Furthermore all affected household in sampled villages had an average income below the poverty line meaning they had low income. Majority of the affected households planted different crops in the uprooted areas; most planted crops are maize and cassava, and others engaged into labour selling to different agricultural enterprises. Findings will provide valuable guidance on the current status of the disease, food security and income in the area, and will assist researchers, policy makers and agriculture extension staff on combating the disease