Organizational Setting

The banana plays a vital role in ensuring food security and nutrition, emerging as a significant cash crop in Nepal, Bangladesh and Vietnam. Establishing a resilient banana production system could revolutionize the rural economy, bolster food security and nutrition, and create numerous employment opportunities in rural areas. However, the growth of banana sector is threatened by Fusarium wilt of banana (FWB), particularly the emergence of Tropical Race 4 (TR4), which poses a grave threat to banana cultivation in above countries. Moreover, there is a lack of expertise at the national level in the proposed countries, along with a deficiency in environmentally friendly and sustainable control measures for FWB. Additionally, weak regulatory phytosanitary measures concerning the import and export of high-quality saplings need to be addressed and standardized. Therefore, proactive measures, rigorous detection and containment surveys, strategic initiatives, and enhancements in regulatory protocols are crucial for effectively managing and containing the disease.
The strategy aims to address the existing gap by developing and executing a comprehensive disease management plan. This project employs a quadrilateral methodology, incorporating pathogen diagnosis, host assessment, microbiome application, and community involvement. It entails conducting thorough surveys and surveillance in key banana production areas, implementing containment protocols, setting up PCR-based and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays for swift TR4 detection, evaluating banana varieties for TR4 resistance, investigating native microbes with TR4-suppressing capabilities, and bolstering the capabilities of farmers, technical personnel, and laboratories. This involves laboratory and field works, reinforcing diagnostic capabilities, and offering training to farmers through banana farmers’ field school’s model. It is anticipated that the results will capture the interest of both multilateral and bilateral resource partners, potentially leading to the formulation of larger-scale programs for resource mobilization. These include:
1. Develop and implement science-based methods for accurate and timely diagnosis of Fusarium wilt disease in banana plantations to enable effective management strategies.
2. Conduct evaluations of banana germplasm for resistance to Fusarium wilt, identifying and promoting cultivars with natural resistance or tolerance to the disease.
3. Engage local communities, farmers, and extension workers in knowledge-sharing activities and participatory research initiatives focused on Fusarium wilt prevention and management, fostering community-led solutions.
4. Develop and disseminate targeted educational materials and outreach campaigns to raise awareness about Fusarium wilt disease and best practices for disease prevention and management among stakeholders.
5. Provide technical assistance and resources to farmers for implementing sustainable soil and farm management practices that promote soil health, improve crop resilience, and minimize the spread of Fusarium wilt.

This project addresses the identified needs and aligns with interventions outlined in the Country Program Framework (CPF) of the respective countries. Strategically, the project corresponds with priorities outlined in the CPFs. This alignment underscores the project’s commitment to tackling challenges and priorities identified by each country to promote sustainable and resilient banana production systems. Moreover, it aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Regional Action Plan (RAP) priorities, aiming for improved production, nutrition, and environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, this project is a response to specific requests from countries seeking assistance in combating this devastating plant disease within the framework of their sustainable agriculture strategy. Additionally, it addresses recommendations highlighted in recent APRC for enhanced phytosanitary measures to mitigate potential invasive plant pests and diseases.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision by the FAO Representative, technical supervision by the Senior Agricultural Officer (Plant Protection) in FAO-RAP, day-to-day management by Assistant FAO Representative (Programme) and in collaboration with the Programme Specialist for Soil Health and Food Systems at FAO in Vietnam and the international consultant for the project. The incumbent will work to ensure the timely implementation of the project and timely providing all relevant deliverables of the project.

Technical Focus

The National Project Coordinator (Plant Protection) will support the implementation of the project activities and provide technical assistance in bananas wilt disease management.

Tasks and responsibilities

•    Support in preparation of a project proposal for an approval of Government of Vietnam
•    Join the task force of the project
•    Prepare a surveillance plan and provide necessary training for surveyors
•    Organize sample collections and prepare TR4 Diagnostic results
•    Implement PCR/ LAMP etc. techniques and order related equipment for TR4 Diagnostics
•    Organize germplasm collection, prepare and evaluate local and exotic germplasms/ landraces against TR4
•    Prepare and organize the development of clean planting material protocols
•    Prepare and organize beneficial microbial organism collections and develop a screening protocol and evaluation of beneficial microbial organisms antagonistic TR4
•    Prepare and organize together with relevant specialists related training workshops planned in receipt country according to the project proposal
•    Provide feedback and clarification to the comments from project teams, FAO officers, governments counterparts, local institutions, banana growers and make the national project report.
•    Prepare communication materials, knowledge products and reports related to the TR4 management and submit to International Consultants (IC) for review and clearance. After the clearance from IC, submit the documents for Lead Technical Officer (LTO) clearance.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements  

•    Advanced university degree preferably in Plant Protection, Agronomy or related field is required
•    Minimum 8 years of experience in plant protection issues in Vietnam
•    Working knowledge of English and Vietnamese.
•    National of Viet Nam or resident in the country with a valid work permit.

FAO Core Competencies

•    Results Focus
•    Teamwork
•    Communication
•    Building Effective Relationships
•    Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills

•    Prior experience in working on projects on the soil/land topic is an asset
•    Previous successful involvement in policy/ strategy review is an asset