Cassava virus threatening food security in Luapula – Natende

The spread of the Cassava Brown Streak Virus Disease in Luapula Province is threatening food security in the area,Sub-Chief Natende of Chiengi district Katele Kalumba has said.

He says the virus that was first detected in Uganda is now widespread in at least three districts in Luapula Province.

In an interview with Q-News, the traditional leader has named the Districts as Chiengi, Kaputa and Nchelenge, adding that the virus may spread to the valley.

He states that his concern is that unlike other parts of the Country, the people of Luapula Province rely on cassava as their staple food.

Sub-Natende is however, happy that President Edgar Lungu is aware of the outbreak of the virus and has directed that something be done to contain it.