New study reveals resilient cassava varieties in Kenya amid pest threats

KENYA – The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) has successfully conducted a new study on cassava pests and diseases in Western Kenya.

Titled “Occurrence and Distribution of Major Cassava Pests and Diseases in Cultivated Cassava Varieties in Western Kenya,” the study was carried out in collaboration with the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Institute (KALRO).

The research assessed the impact of pests like whiteflies and cassava green mites (CGM), along with diseases such as Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD) and Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD), highlighting the serious challenges facing cassava production, a vital food source for millions in sub-Saharan Africa.

The study involved field surveys in six major cassava-producing counties to evaluate the extent of these threats. While CMD remains widespread, the findings indicate that its impact has diminished due to the adoption of improved cassava varieties like MM96/4271.

These varieties exhibit resistance to CMD and tolerance to CBSD, providing crucial protection for farmers’ yields.

“The introduction of these resilient varieties has been crucial for farmers, allowing them to maintain production levels despite ongoing pest pressures,” said Dr. James Legg, a lead researcher at IITA.

Despite these advancements, the study highlights a growing concern: rising populations of pests like whiteflies and CGMs. Researchers attribute this increase partly to climate change, which alters pest dynamics and agricultural practices.

KALRO has initiated efforts to promote the use of improved cassava varieties, leading to positive results. These varieties are better suited to local conditions, resulting in lower disease rates and higher yields.

However, the research emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring and effective pest management strategies. “The reemergence of pests like CGMs, despite past control efforts, shows that we must remain vigilant and invest in research to develop effective strategies,” said Dr. Mary Mwangi, a KALRO researcher.

“Our aim is to sustain cassava as a key crop for food security, especially in light of increasingly dry conditions.”

The study calls for enhancing seed delivery systems and improving marketing structures while providing training for farmers in good agricultural practices.

These measures are essential to ensuring that the gains made through the introduction of disease-resistant varieties translate into sustainable production.

As a staple crop second only to maize, cassava supports the diets of over 500 million people across sub-Saharan Africa.

In terms of production, Kenya produces approximately 946,076 metric tons of cassava annually, cultivated over 61,592 hectares.

However, local demand for cassava exceeds production by 200%, with demand reaching 3 million metric tons. The western region accounts for about 60% of the national production, while the coastal region contributes around 30%.

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