Distribution of common bacterial blight disease under different agroecologies in Uganda

Abstract

Common bacterial blight disease (CBB) causes severe yield and seed quality losses on common bean worldwide. Information about CBB distribution is important in designing effective control strategies. This disease has been managed using intergraded strategies, involving use of certified seed produced in areas of low disease pressure. Unfortunately, areas of low CBB pressure have not been mapped in Uganda. This study was conducted to determine the distribution and intensity of CBB in Uganda, in order to establish low pressure areas for multiplication of clean certified seed. A survey was conducted in farmers’ fields in18 locations found in four rainfalls-based agroecology in Uganda, for two seasons of 2016. The Victoria Cresent and Mbale farmland had the highest disease intensity index (29%); followed by Central woodland savannah (21%). The Northwest farm land and South west grass farm lands had low CBB intensity index of 2.5 and 7.8%, respectively. Thus, The Northwest farm land (Arua, Amuru, Nwoya) and South west grass farm lands (Rakai, Ntungamo Lwengo and Bukomansimbi), are recommended for production of CBB free bean seeds.

Key words: Integrated, intensity, Lake Victoria Cresent