Kenyan scientist warns for impact ToBRFV on African growers

Tomato farmers in Africa have been urged to be on the lookout for the ToBRFV virus that has been causing havoc in most tomato-growing countries. Speaking during African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA) Congress in September this year, Dr. Isaac Macharia, General Manager, Phytosanitary Services at the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), said countries in Africa are encouraged to report the occurrence of the disease to ensure other countries prepare. "This virus is more severe on young tomato plants and can result in 30-70% yield loss. The unique thing about this virus is that it doesn’t infect the embryo of the seed but instead contaminates the seed coat,” he added. “Its rapid spread demonstrates that ToBRFV has become a worldwide threat to tomato production. The continent needs to prepare for the negative impact of the disease in tomato production,” he said. "There is a need to ensure we prevent the introduction of this virus in most of our countries. We can achieve ...