The County Government of Taita Taveta is turning to Irish potato farming as a source of income, youth employment and agribusiness opportunities, with now efforts focusing on access to certified seeds, farmer training, research and reliable markets.
The county currently has about 750 hectares under Irish potato production, generating an estimated 11,250 tonnes annually.
ALSO READ:How Kakamega Plans to Move Beyond Raw Hides into Leather Manufacturing
With average productivity of 15 tonnes per hectare and a farm gate price of approximately 50 shillings per kilogram, the crop is estimated to be worth 562.5 million shillings annually.
Through the National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project (NAVCDP), 21 farmer groups have received seed potato support through Farmer Field and Business Schools (FFBS).
The programme has also established nine half acre demonstration plots where farmers are trained on improved production methods and farm management.
Farmers get support to access certified seeds
In Mbale Ward, Wundanyi, agripreneur Gift Kisombe has helped connect farmers to a seed supplier who purchased certified Markies seed potatoes worth 131,600 shillings.
Access to quality planting materials is considered an important step in improving potato production, particularly for farmers seeking to increase yields and earn better returns.
The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) is also supporting the county’s efforts through research aimed at identifying potato varieties suited to different ecological zones.
The varieties currently grown in Taita Taveta include Unica, Markies, Dutch Robijn, Kenya Mpya, Sheherekea and Shangi.
Taveta farmers targeted for training
The County Department of Agriculture, working with NAVCDP and AGRICOS, has introduced Irish potato farming in Taveta Sub County as part of efforts to expand production and share agricultural knowledge.
Plans are also underway to train farmers and other stakeholders on sustainable production practices, with the county seeking to improve farming methods and strengthen the crop’s commercial potential.
CECM for Agriculture Dawson Katuu Mzenge says potato farming presents an opportunity to improve household incomes and even strengthen food security for the young people.
He has emphasised the need for modern farming technologies, quality seeds, dependable markets and value addition to make agriculture more attractive as a business.
ALSO READ:Years on, Alupe Hospital in Busia Awaits X-ray Installation and Mortuary Completion
Markets remain key to better farmer returns
While the county is seeking to increase production, access to reliable markets will be important in determining how much farmers benefit from the crop.
At an estimated farm gate price of 50 shillings per kilogram, the county’s annual potato output represents a significant source of agricultural revenue.
However, farmers also need dependable buyers, proper storage facilities and processing opportunities to reduce post-harvest losses and protect their earnings.
Stronger links between farmers, seed suppliers, researchers and buyers could help establish a more organised potato value chain, opening up opportunities beyond production, including transportation, aggregation, storage and processing.
Kenya’s potato industry faces production challenges
The county’s efforts came against the backdrop of the 13th World Potato Congress, which brought together global stakeholders to discuss potato production, food security, nutrition and trade.
While officially opening the congress, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said Kenya produced approximately 2.2 million tonnes of potatoes in 2024, valued at KSh72.5 billion.
“A food secure, healthier, prosperous farmer is also, in my considered view, a prerequisite for a safer, stable and productive society,” Kagwe said.
However, the sector continues to face challenges, including limited access to quality seeds, crop diseases, weather-related losses and inadequate processing capacity.
The congress provides an opportunity for farmers, researchers, investors and policymakers to exchange ideas and explore solutions to improve production, storage and processing.
Leave a Reply