Training on Detection and Identification of Pectobacteria spp., Dickeya spp., and Clavibacter michiganensis nebraskensis Held at Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service Headquarters, Karen and PQBS Muguga

On 27^th April to 1^st May 2026 and 4^th to 8^th May 2026, the COPE and FAO conducted a five-day capacity-building training at KEPHIS Headquarters and PQBS Muguga respectively for participants from various National Plant Protection Organizations (NPPOs). The training, focused on detection and identification of key bacterial plant pathogens, integrating both theoretical sessions and practical laboratory exercises. Participants were taken through classical and rapid diagnostic methods, sample collection, molecular techniques, DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.

The sessions were highly interactive, allowing participants to gain hands-on experience and strengthen their diagnostic skills. The training enhanced technical capacity in plant health diagnostics, promoted knowledge exchange, and reinforced regional collaboration in managing transboundary plant pests and diseases. At the end of the training the participants were awarded with certificates of participation.