Survey updates – East Africa

Kenya: stem rust incidence and severity is very high in Kenya. Recent surveys (June 2010) by KARI,Njoro staff in the Narok region recorded stem rust in 80% of the 109 fields surveyed. Stem rust severity was recorded as moderate (20-40%) or high (>40%) in 33% of the survey fields. Extremely susceptible reactions (80-100S) were recorded in 5% of the survey fields. From the survey, 90% of the fields were considered to have received some fungicide application. Reports from the field indicate that farmers who have not sprayed, sprayed late, or used incorrect dosages are experiencing crop losses. Following above normal rainfall in recent months, conditions appear conducive for disease development.

Uganda: Surveys were undertaken by Buginyanya Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute and FAO in July 2010. A total of 25 fields were surveyed in Kapchorwa district (east) and Kabale / Kisoro districts (south-west), Uganda. Stem rust was recorded in 64% of the fields surveyed. Highest incidence and severity was recorded in Kabale district, with only trace amounts and low incidence detected in Kapchorwa district. Bread wheat, barley and triticale were all observed with susceptible reactions; however any losses would be minimal due to the advanced stage of most crops. Current race composition in Uganda is unknown, but samples were collected for future race analysis.