ACA Conference Urges Early Pest Forecasting to Protect Africa’s Cashew Production
African Cashew Alliance called for stronger pest and disease forecasting to shift from reactive to proactive management at its 2026 conference in Accra.
In Brief
- •African Cashew Alliance called for stronger pest and disease forecasting to shift from reactive to proactive management at its 2026 conference in Accra.
- •Pests and diseases are cited as the top productivity constraints, reducing potential yields from 1,500 kg/ha to below 500 kg/ha in many regions.
- •The conference highlighted 16 recorded disease expressions, with powdery mildew the leading threat in Eastern and South‑Eastern Africa and emerging in West Africa.
- •In Tanzania, cashew aphids affect 46.5 % of farms and cashew mosquito bugs 42.9 % of farms, underscoring the economic impact of insect pests.
- •Stakeholders stressed the need for research, extension and technology to support earlier identification and response to pest risks amid climate change.
Why It Matters
Cashew is a key cash crop for many African farmers, with the continent producing 58 % of the world’s raw cashew nuts yet processing only about 20 % locally. Yield losses from pests and diseases threaten farmer incomes, national competitiveness, and the sustainability of the cashew supply chain. By improving forecasting and early response, the sector can safeguard yields, reduce chemical use, and enhance resilience to climate‑driven pest dynamics.
Key Details
- World Raw Cashew Production Share
- 58 %
- Local Processing Share
- 20 %
- Potential Yield per Hectare
- 1,500 kg
- Reduced Yield after Losses
- <500 kg
- Number of Recorded Disease Expressions
- 16
- Pest Impact in Tanzania – Aphids
- 46.5 % of farms
- Pest Impact in Tanzania – Cashew Mosquito Bugs
- 42.9 % of farms
Original Reporting & Sources
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