In September 2017 the inauguration of Professor Gert Kema as professor by special appointment for Tropical Phytopathology at Wageningen University & Research took place. During his inauguration Kema revealed what it will take to save the banana.
The banana has been severely affected by fungal diseases that can only be combated by using more and more (chemical) plant protection products. In the last century, the much-loved Gros Michel banana variety was wiped out as a result of Panama disease. But now the replacement variety Cavendish – available in every supermarket – is at risk. At his inauguration as professor by special appointment for Tropical Phytopathology at Wageningen University & Research on 21 September 2017, Professor Gert Kema revealed what it will take to save the banana.
Professor Kema’s special chair is funded by the Dioraphte Foundation and hosted by the Laboratory of Phytopathology.
More information about the inauguration: https://www.wur.nl/en/newsarticle/Banana-has-a-future-after-all-1.htm