The Status of Banana Production in Tanzania; a Review of Threats and Opportunities

The word “banana” refers to a crop that cuddles number of species commonly known as Musa spp. In Tanzania, the is fourth most important for food and income generation more than 30 percent total population. East Africa, Tanzania second banana producer after Uganda. country has highest world’s consumption rate between 280-500 kg per person. Despite crop’s importance its production declined from 18 t/ha in 1960s 5-7 t/ha/year 2016. This review examined status by identifying threats opportunities with aim providing readily available resource Researchers Agriculture Extension Officers better production. Through online resources, identified challenges impeding ascertaining prevailing opportunities. Banana faced many including major pests (weevil nematode) diseases (fusarium wilt disease, black sigatoka, xanthomonas disease), poor soil fertility, moisture stress, management practices, lack improved varieties social economic factors. that, since 1990s there are few introduced these low consumer’s acceptability. Again shortage breeding centers could produce desirable hybrid cultivars. also information resources research platforms involves all stakeholders, making targeting varietal attributes consumer preferences very difficult. Therefore, order improve must be an inter-link among different disciplines, involving governmental non-governmental organizations, coming together seek solutions current future problems sustainable banana.