Assessment of farmers knowledge and management practices of seed-borne fungal diseases of okra, in Tanzania

Effective management of crop diseases depends on farmers' understanding of disease aetiology, transmission and control strategies.However, gaps in such knowledge remain a major constraint to okra production in Tanzania, particularly due to seed-borne fungal diseases.This study assessed farmers' knowledge and management practices regarding seed-borne fungal diseases affecting okra in Morogoro and Arusha.Qualitative approaches, including focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews (KIIs), and field observations, were employed.The most prevalent diseases reported were Alternaria leaf spot (33.8%) and Fusarium wilt (28%), among others.While 80% of farmers could recognise visible disease symptoms, their understanding of underlying causes and seed-borne transmission was limited.Disease management is largely dependent on chemical control methods.However, a notable proportion of farmers also employ cultural practices, particularly crop rotation (44%), intercropping (26%), and timely sowing (12%), indicating some level of integrated management practices.The findings highlight knowledge gaps that hinder effective disease management.Strengthened extension services and multistakeholder collaboration are essential to improve farmers' awareness, promote integrated disease management and enhance okra productivity and food security in Tanzania.