Survey of the Kari Bacterial Wilt of potatoes cause by Ralstonia solanacearum and its spread in the major potato growing areas of Kenya: Task Force Report to the Director-KARI

Abstract

A survey conducted in all major potato-growing areas of Nakuru, Bomet, Nyandarua, Meru, and Nyeri districts showed that bacterial wilt continues to ravage the potato crop reducing yield and shelf life of harvested tubers. Generally, an average of between 30- 70% bacterial wilt incidences were observed. Comprehensive multidisciplinary control strategies need to be implemented to ensure this crop's continued growth, which is important in offering food security, alleviation of poverty, and generation of employment pportunities to the majority of Kenyans.