Tackling Mango Diseases in Côte d’Ivoire: Dr Yéfoungnigui Souleymane YEO’s research findings
Dr Yéfoungnigui Souleymane YEO, a recent Rsif PhD graduate (2024) from Félix Houphouët-Boigny University in Côte d’Ivoire, has made significant strides in addressing the challenges faced by mango farmers in his country. His research focused on understanding and managing two major mango diseases—Mango Decline (MD) and Stem-End Rot (SER)—which have been made worse by climate change, causing significant reductions in mango yields.
Between 2020 and 2021, Dr YEO studied the impact of these diseases in various mango orchards across Côte d’Ivoire. He found that MD affected 20% to 100% of mangoes, with some orchards seeing up to 80% of their crops severely damaged. SER was found to affect 10% to 30% of ripe mangoes, with damage severity ranging from 5% to 20%.
One important aspect of Dr YEO’s research was examining how climate conditions, like temperature and humidity, influenced these diseases. He discovered that higher humidity and rainfall helped reduce the severity of MD, while higher temperatures made it worse. Similarly, higher temperatures increased the severity of SER.
To identify the specific fungi causing these diseases, D. YEO used advanced genetic tools and discovered 17 types of fungi, with one called Lasiodiplodia being the most common. Importantly, he also tested sustainable ways to control these diseases, using natural pesticides and extracts from the Moringa oleifera plant, which showed promising results in managing SER.
Dr YEO’s research is a great example of how Rsif scholars are solving real problems in their countries. By improving mango production in Côte d’Ivoire, his work not only supports local farmers but also contributes to the broader goals of food security and economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa.
The Rsif program plays a crucial role in advancing higher education and research in Africa. It provides students with the support and resources they need to address pressing challenges in their communities. Dr YEO’s success story highlights the impact of the Rsif program in fostering innovation and practical solutions that benefit both local and regional agriculture.
Through the efforts of dedicated researchers like Dr YEO, Rsif continues to drive progress and development across the continent, showcasing the power of education and research in creating a better future for Africa. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories of how Rsif scholars are shaping the future of Africa through groundbreaking research and innovation.