Potato is one of the most important crop enterprises in Meru County, serving both as a staple food and as a cash crop. The industry contributes significantly to the county’s economy, with an average annual production of 168,515 metric tons valued at over KSh 5.2 billion. Despite its importance, potato production in Meru continues to perform below its potential due to several challenges, including climate change, limited access to certified seed potato, and the prevalence of pests and diseases.
The Meru County Potato Strategy (CPS) is a policy document that addresses the county-specific industry challenges and points out to the possible interventions that if adopted, can unlock the full potential of the potato industry. The strategy aligns with the National Potato Strategy, Kenya Vision 2030, and the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP). It clearly outlines the contributions of key subsector players and development partners, thereby providing a unified approach to strengthening the performance and growth of the potato industry within the county.
In July 2025, NPCK, through the Kenya Sustainable Potato Initiative (KSPI) project funded by AGRA, in collaboration with Solidaridad, NAVCDP, and the Meru County Department of Agriculture, convened a stakeholders’ validation meeting at Meru Slopes Hotel. This meeting brought together diverse stakeholders from across the potato value chain to review and enrich the draft strategy.
The validation process captured critical inputs such as the need for enhanced value addition, effective pest and disease resistance management, adoption of modern technologies, and strengthening of farmer organizations. Stakeholders emphasized the importance of improving market linkages, promoting investment in storage and processing facilities, and creating a supportive regulatory environment. By consolidating these views, the strategy ensures that it is both comprehensive and aligned with the aspirations of the county. The finalized Meru County Potato Strategy seeks to transform the county’s potato industry into a vibrant, competitive, and sustainable sector, addressing key issues including; increasing productivity, enhancing value addition, improving market systems, and strengthening governance and regulation.
The strategy is now awaiting final approvals before its official adoption and implementation. Once adopted, it will serve as a guiding framework for coordinated action by county, private players, and development partners, ensuring that the Meru potato industry achieves the growth and transformation envisioned by all stakeholders.
Stakeholders during the validation meeting
