In Burundi, potatoes are a crop that is currently the subject of speculation because of their often high yield (15-35 tons per hectare). However, potato seed production requires quality starting material. ISABU then established a rigorous system for the production of healthy seeds based on micropropagation (in vitro cultivation) and greenhouses in 1987. This system for producing mini tubers in greenhouses is called a conventional system. The latter is based on the use of the substrate sterilized by steam, which makes it a very demanding and expensive system. For this reason, ISABU is in the process of introducing the aeroponic technique to face this challenge.

Apart from its great ecological diversity, the International Potato Center (CIP) indicates that potatoes come second in terms of the production of carbohydrates (after sugar cane) per unit of time or proteins (after soybeans) per unit of area. It is the fourth largest in the world in terms of area planted after rice, wheat and maize (WOOLFE, 1987).

In terms of consumption, men and women and even children appreciate the taste of potatoes. However, given its generally high price in developing countries, it is often consumed by the producers themselves as well as by the inhabitants of urban centers.

Aeroponics is a system for producing mini tubers in greenhouses, including taro in Burundi. Two species of taro are cultivated: Colocasia esculenta and Xantho-soma sagittifolium. These species have become popular and contribute to the diet as the main source of energy. However, over the last 20 years, a very strong downward trend in production for both species due to biotic constraints has been observed. Preliminary field observations as well as laboratory tests have shown the prevalence of viral infections and fungi. A research conducted in 2013 at the Beca-ILRI Hub identified the Dasheen Mosaic Virus (DsMV) on samples collected in Burundi as well as a badnavirus.. not characterized at that time.

Since the fight against viruses is preventive in nature, it is necessary to obtain a reliable and relatively inexpensive detection method. Diagnostic tools that have been developed for viruses include ELISA tests and PCR tests. PCR tests are reliable, but require expensive equipment and qualified personnel, which are not always available at most research stations. The LAMP test has been identified as a reliable and simple laboratory method for the detection of viruses and other pathogens. This test works under isothermal conditions with comparable and even more specific effectiveness than PCR.