Distribution and Occurrence of Cercospora Leaf Spot of Mungbean (Vigna radiata) and Associated Agronomic Factors in Ethiopia

Abstract

Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) is a major cash‐generating pulse crop in Ethiopia's lowlands, serving as a key source of plant‐based protein and contributing to soil fertility. However, its production is severely constrained by Cercospora Leaf Spot (CLS), a destructive fungal disease. During the 2024 and 2025 cropping seasons, a total of 496 mungbean farms from 33 districts in five regions of Ethiopia were inspected to assess the distribution and occurrence of CLS and its association with agronomic factors. The districts were selected according to their mungbean production potential. Necessary information related to farm field inspected including altitude and absolute location were recorded during field assessments. A logistic regression model was used to analyze the associations between CLS occurrence and agronomic factors. CLS was widespread across all surveyed districts, with prevalence ranging from 72% (Gindo Koisha) to 100% (Sodo), and increased from 85.43% of fields in 2024 to 91.25% in 2025, showing a 5.8% increase in CLS occurrence. High CLS incidence (> 50%) and severity (> 40%) were significantly (p < 0.0001) associated with Sodo districts, followed by Adami Tullu, Awash Melakassa, Kulfo‐Halaba, and Lebo Kemkem. These conditions were predominantly observed in the 2025 cropping season at elevations above 1500 m a.s.l. and were linked to high weed infestation, minimal tillage, and infrequent weeding during the grain‐filling stage. Therefore, priority should be given to CLS‐prone districts through research‐based integrated management to ensure sustainable mungbean production. This would enhance nutritional security and recognize mungbean as a future smart food crop.