Outbreak of M. pot varus Threatens Agriculture in Liberia

Monrovia, Liberia – May 18, 2025

An outbreak of M. pot varus, a potentially devastating plant pathogen, has been reported in several agricultural regions of Liberia, raising concerns among farmers, government officials, and agricultural experts.

The Ministry of Agriculture confirmed the presence of the disease earlier this week following reports of widespread crop damage in Bong, Lofa, and Nimba counties. Initial assessments suggest that the pathogen primarily affects staple crops such as potatoes and other root vegetables, causing severe rot, stunted growth, and significant yield loss.

“We are actively monitoring the situation and working with local and international partners to assess the scale of the outbreak,” said Minister of Agriculture J. Alexander Doe during a press briefing in Monrovia. “Our immediate goal is to contain the spread and protect the country’s food security.”

M. pot varus is a lesser-known but aggressive strain of plant fungus that thrives in warm, humid conditions—ideal in Liberia’s tropical climate. Experts warn that without rapid intervention, the outbreak could lead to severe economic consequences, particularly in rural farming communities that rely heavily on subsistence agriculture.

The government has launched emergency response measures, including:

• Field inspections and disease mapping

• Public awareness campaigns on early detection

• Distribution of fungicides and resistant seed varieties

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other international bodies have also pledged support, offering technical assistance and resources to help mitigate the impact.

“This is a critical moment for food production in Liberia,” said Dr. Grace Nyenpan, a plant pathologist at the University of Liberia. “Timely action can make the difference between a manageable outbreak and a national food crisis.”

Farmers are urged to report any signs of crop disease to local agricultural offices and to avoid transporting potentially infected plants between regions.

Authorities are expected to provide weekly updates as more data becomes available.

If M. pot varus refers to something different (e.g., a human disease, an animal disease, or a different organism entirely),