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ENHANCING POTATO PRODUCTION WITH CLIMATE-SMART VARIETIES
Climate change poses a growing threat to food security, with potato production being highly vulnerable to rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and increased pest and disease pressure. To sustain yields and improve resilience, farmers require access to climate-smart technologies — with resilient potato varieties playing a central role. Potatoes are sensitive to both abiotic and biotic […]
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Potato Contract Farming: Opportunities and responsibilities for Farmers
Potato contract farming is increasingly becoming a reliable approach for farmers who seek security in production and marketing. Among its greatest advantages is the guarantee of market access at agreed prices. This shields farmers from the unpredictability of market volatility, where oversupply or exploitation by middlemen often lowers farm-gate prices. By working under a contract, […]
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Agriculture Meets Technology: Shaping the Future of Farming
Farming is rapidly evolving beyond the traditional image of hoes and tractors. The rise of AgTech — a fusion of agriculture and technology — is reshaping how food is grown, harvested, and delivered. From drones and sensors to artificial intelligence and robotics, technology is helping farmers produce more while using fewer resources. Precision Agriculture is […]
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NPCK Participates in Mechanized Potato Planting Field Day Organized by Egerton University
On 23rd September 2025, the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK) took part in a highly impactful field day event focused on mechanized potato planting. The event, organized by Egerton University under the Kenya Sustainable Potato Initiative (KSPI) project, was held at the Kaimbaga, Olkalou Nyandarua hosted by a potato farmer. Funded by the Alliance […]
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Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN): The Hidden Threat to Potato Farming in Kenya
Introduction Potato farming is a vital source of food and income for thousands of Kenyan households. However, an invisible pest, the Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN), is quietly undermining yields and farmer livelihoods across the country. PCN are microscopic soil-dwelling worms (Globodera spp.) that attack potato roots, leading to stunted plants, yellowing leaves, and yield losses […]
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How Rooted Apical Cutting (RAC) Technology is Revolutionizing Potato Farming in Kenya
Potato farming plays a critical role in Kenya’s food security and income generation, especially in counties like Nyandarua, Nakuru, and Meru. Yet, for decades, farmers have struggled with access to clean and certified seed, leading to low yields and vulnerability to diseases. A new innovation – Apical Rooted Cutting (RAC) technology – is changing this […]
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Viazi Soko – The Digital Platform Empowering Potato Farmers in Kenya
Digital agriculture is gaining ground in Kenya, and one of the standout platforms is Viazi Soko, developed by the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK). This innovative system connects potato farmers to certified seed suppliers, reliable buyers, and real-time agronomic advice, helping them overcome challenges of middlemen and poor-quality inputs. What is Viazi Soko? Viazi […]
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Smart cold storage Solutions Helping Kenyan Potato Farmers Cut Post-Harvest Losses
Potatoes are Kenya’s second most important food crop after maize. However, farmers lose up to 30–40% of their harvest due to poor storage. Smart cold storage solutions are now emerging as a vital technology to cut post-harvest losses, stabilize prices, and improve farmer incomes. Why Cold Storage Matters Potatoes are highly perishable. Without proper storage, […]
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Breaking Barriers to Boost Horticulture Trade in COMESA
Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) remain one of the biggest obstacles to seamless cross-border trade within the COMESA region. Lengthy border procedures, inconsistent application of sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures, duplication of certifications, and high compliance costs continue to limit the competitiveness of horticulture producers and exporters. These barriers not only slow down trade but also increase […]
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Farmers training in Nandi County Trained on Soil Health, Input Sourcing, and field officers training on Safe Use of Chemicals by AAK grow.
In a bid to strengthen agricultural productivity and sustainability, farmers in Nandi County recently benefited from a comprehensive training program focusing on soil health, fertility management, and good agricultural practices (GAPs). The sessions were organized in collaboration with agricultural stakeholders to equip farmers with practical knowledge and skills to improve yields while safeguarding the environment. […]
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