Crop pests and disease management in Uganda: status and investment needs

One of the major risks facing the agricultural sector of Uganda is plant pests and diseases. This feasibility report explores the root causes of pests and diseases affecting major agricultural produce in Uganda. It also reviews the legal and institutional framework for pest management as well as the cost-effectiveness of different approaches to reducing pests and diseases, with recommendations for future investment.

Drawing on both secondary and primary data sources, the report reveals key pests that constrain agricultural productivity in Uganda as coffee wilt disease, banana xanthomonas wilt (BXW), cassava brown streak virus, fruit flies and citrus canker. Crop losses due to pests and diseases are estimated at 10-20% (pre-harvest); 20-30% (post-harvest); and up to 100% for perishable crops and export crops. Annual losses in monetary terms amount to US$ 35-200 million (bananas), US$60-80 million (cassava), US$10 million (cotton) and US$8 million(coffee).