A doctoral thesis entitled "Integrated approach to banana production systems in areas of Kongo Central (Southwest of the DRC) infected by the ''Bunchy top'' disease" was supported Thursday at the University of Kinshasa (UNIKIN) by a works manager.

" The objective of this study is to develop a local approach to banana production through different cropping systems in areas of central Kongo that are highly affected by bunchy top disease. ", said the head of work Germaine Hermine Vangu Paka of the Department of Phytotechnics of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of this alma mater.

According to the recipient, in the DRC, bananas and plantains are grown mainly by small farmers for self-consumption and local sale, and play an important role in food security and the income of the population in the different production areas.

However, the applicant argued, both crops are subject to severe pest problems. This thesis provided innovations for preventive control of these pest problems. The author of the thesis approached political and administrative authorities in the Kongo Central province and scientists for solutions to this disease that attacks banana trees.

Professors Patrick Mobambo Kitume, Félicien Lukoki Luyeye, Célestin Mukala, Joseph Katanga, Masimango Ndyanabo and Pululu Mfuidi were respectively the supervisor, president and members of the jury of this thesis.

Professor Charles Odiko, Academic Secretary General of UNIKIN, representing the Rector, conferred on the candidate, on this occasion, the degree of Doctor of Agricultural Sciences with the mention " the great distinction ".

Inera appreciates this thesis for solutions to society's problems

Furthermore, Mr. Dominique Kakonde, Director General of the National Institute for Agronomic Study and Research (INERA) appreciated the quintessence of this thesis which provides solutions to the problems of banana diseases across all its varieties.

INERA, he said, should use the resolutions of this work in its challenges in terms of the need for resilient agriculture adapted to climate change, the production of quality and quantity bananas, as well as industrialization and commercialization.

He reaffirmed INERA's determination, which is part of the Ministry of Scientific Research and Technology, to support the Congolese government's agricultural research program. This thesis was completed through cooperation between UNIKIN's Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and INERA.

ACP/KHM