Potatoes take 3-4 months to be ready for harvesting. Having good soil and certified seeds are important factors to consider when you want to venture into potato farming. Certified seed potatoes are produced under strict quality management practices to ensure they are of high standards with high germination rates and free from pests and diseases leading to high yields.

Most farmers in Kenya do not use certified seeds potato because of low availability and accessibility. Viazi Soko Digital Platform plays an important role in solving most of the challenges farmers encounter in accessing and using quality seeds. During this year’s long rain season (March-July), the platform has helped farmers access certified seeds from key seed companies such as Kisima farm, Agrico East Africa, ADC Molo and Stokman Rozen Limited. Farmers booked and ordered potato seeds (Seed potato, cuttings and mini-tubers) of their preferred varieties through the platform which were delivered to them by Viazi Kings Ltd, a logistic company partnering with NPCK. About 3,000 bags of certified seeds was ordered through the Platform and delivered to farmers in various counties: Nakuru (67%), Meru (16%), Nyandarua (7%), Narok (3%), Nairobi (3%), Laikipia (2%), Uasin Gishu and Elgeyo Marakwet receiving 2% cumulatively. The platform has proved to be efficient and cost effective in accessing the certified seeds by smallholder farmers. Currently the NPCK is working with agrochemical and fertilizer companies on availing their products for marketing and accessibility by the farmers through the platform.

Photo: Farmers from different counties receiving their certified seeds they ordered through the Viazi Soko digital platform.