Occurrence of fungal and bacterial diseases of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) in western Kenya

Bacterial and fungal diseases of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) are a major constraint in production of the crop in western Kenya. The objective of this study was to determine the occurrence of fungal and bacterial diseases of common bean in diverse agro-ecological zones of western Kenya. A total of 635 farms were sampled in all the agro ecological zones. The major diseases affecting the common bean were common bacterial blight and root rots. Prevalence of fungal and bacterial diseases significantly (P ≤ 0.05) varied with region and agro-ecological zone (AEZ). The high occurrence of fungal and bacterial diseases of common bean in western Kenya could be attributed to poor cropping practices and favourable weather conditions. The variation in disease prevalence and indices among the different agro-ecological zones can be used to identify bean varieties that are best suited for production in specific zones.