Potato
National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK) is targeting over 150, 000 potato farmers in four potato-producing counties to fast-track potato production through Kenya Sustainable Potato Initiative (KSPI) Project.
The KSPI project which was launched on Monday will serve Nyandarua, Nandi, Laikipia, and Meru counties. Apart from collaborating with the four counties, NPCK is also in collaboration with Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) – Tigon, Egerton University, AGRA, Simplifine and Viazi Kings.
During the launch at Ol Kalau Town, NPCK Chief Executive Officer, Wachira Kaguongo said the project would fast-track track production of potatoes in the four counties from seed production to marketing. Kaguongo said the goal of the project is to sustainably improve production and incomes of about 150, 000 potato farmers directly.
“Apart from reaching over 150, 000 farmers, the project also aims at reaching over 300, 000 farmers indirectly as well as creating employment for about 5, 000 youths and women,” noted Kaguongo. The CEO further pointed out that the project would focus on building a strong and efficient potato seed system that would enhance farmers’ access to high-quality seeds of appropriate variety.
A stand during the launch of the KSPI Project showcasing varieties of potato seeds. Photo by Kimani Tirus
“KSPI also aims at improving enabling environment and coordination in potato sub-sector for inclusive agriculture transformation,” added the CEO. AGRA Country Director Mr. John Macharia said potato production follows maize production in Kenya adding that with proper management, this could be drastically improved.
He further noted AGRA is partnering with NPCK to fast-track full implementation of potato regulation on 50kg packaging which is yet to be fully implemented. The Director further noted that only 9 percent of potato seeds available in Kenya were certified adding that they aimed to improve the percentage to 29 percent by the end of this year.
Nyandarua County Chief Officer in charge of Agriculture, Mr Samuel Gitaka noted that the main challenge in potato production was the unavailability of certified potato seeds. However, Gitaka noted that Nyandarua County government has established a seed multiplication unit to fast-track potato seed production.
The launch was also graced by officials from the other three potato-producing counties.