We are pleased to share that Dr. BAGRI BOURAIMA Moukaïla successfully defended his doctoral thesis before a distinguished jury at the Université d’Abomey-Calavi.
His dissertation, titled “Agroecological management of tomato bacterial wilt caused by the Ralstonia solanacearum species complex in Southern Benin,” made a significant contribution to advancing sustainable solutions for managing bacterial wilt (BW) in tomato production systems through innovative agroecological approaches.
The research highlighted the severe impact of bacterial wilt on tomato farmers and proposed practical, environmentally friendly strategies to help mitigate the disease, improve yields, and strengthen crop resilience.
Key Findings
- A major constraint in production areas
Bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum (RSSC) was identified as the most limiting factor in tomato cultivation across the Mono and Couffo departments. - High yield and economic losses
The study recorded yield losses ranging from 1 to 27 t/ha, alongside economic losses between $112/ha and $6,226/ha. Without effective management, the disease threatens food security and worsens the economic vulnerability of smallholder farmers. - Promising agroecological solutions
Grafting, varietal selection, biological control, and combined strategies emerged as the most effective agroecological methods for managing bacterial wilt and improving crop performance under both field and experimental conditions. - Effectiveness influenced by environmental factors
The performance of these management options varied depending on crop type, variety origin, climatic conditions, and soil acidity. - Limited farmer awareness
The research also revealed limited knowledge among farmers in Mono and Couffo regarding bacterial wilt, hindering the adoption of participatory and informed disease-management practices.
