Preferred Banana Varieties and their Seed Systems in Eastern and Central provinces of Kenya

Abstract

Banana is an important crop for food security in Kenya. Its production has been hindered by scarcity of seedlings and pests, among other factors. A recent survey in eastern and central Kenya showed that desert varieties are prefered due to market demand. Natural regeneration is also preferred by most farmers (>85%) but it is inefficient and a source of pests and diseases to new plantations. On the other hand, adoption of tissue culture has been hindered by high cost of seedlings. Farmers need to be educated on shortcomings of natural regeneration and affordable seedling delivery system implemented. Macropropagation supported by an efficient delivery system is proposed to boost banana production in Kenya.