In this study we evaluate the potential role the banana value chain can play in reducing poverty and eliminating hunger among the rural poor and urban in Uganda and Tanzania. We provide a comprehensive analysis of banana consumption and productivity in the two countries and analyze the challenges and opportunities to provide more efficient and improved production and marketing by focusing on small businesses along the commodity value chain. To undertake this study we extensively reviewed published data and gray literature from EAC national programs and international sources to establish the best available information on banana supply and demand. But in view of the limited and unreliable nature of the available data, we undertook a large structured survey across the region involving producers, food sellers, traders (retailers, wholesalers), exporters/importers, consumers, institutional buyers and key informants on banana productivity in order to better inform this study; together with an expert workshop with representatives from across the banana value chain. Using these techniques we have gained insights into key variables such as varieties grown by different categories of farmers, volumes produced, volumes consumed at home, major markets, volumes sold, production costs, crop management practices, challenges faced by banana farmers and information on consumer demographics and preferences – varieties purchased by different consumers and reasons why, prices, where they purchase from, volumes purchased, monthly banana budget, among others. We are aware of the growing importance of rice as an alternative staple food in the region and therefore offer a comparison between rice and bananas to demonstrate the relative importance of ea...... middle of paper ......data we gain from this study: 1) Increase the industrial use of bananas by promoting added value. 2) Support the development of banana-based businesses. 3) Promote soil fertility management and water conservation in banana production. 4) Require comprehensive mapping and analysis of the banana value chain to provide updated data to provide benchmarks for interventions. 5) Promote associations to improve marketing and support among agricultural communities (currently producers are small and scattered, they work individually). 6) Extend banana cultivation to non-traditional banana areas with irrigation potential.7) Raise public awareness to seize existing opportunities in the banana industry.8) Direct development towards the universal varieties Cavendish and Matooke in order to expand production of bananas and produce significant repercussions.