The potato subsector in Kenya presents significant opportunities for growth, driven by increasing demand, the potential for value addition, and the need for improved agricultural practices. However, despite its potential, the sector faces several challenges, including low productivity, poor quality of seed potatoes, and inadequate market access. Yet, there are clear opportunities for enhancing the sector, which could have a profound impact on the economy and the livelihoods of farmers.

One of the most pressing opportunities for growth lies in improving seed potato quality and accessibility. Many smallholder farmers in Kenya still rely on uncertified or low-quality seeds, which significantly reduce yields and overall potato quality. NPCK, through the Viazi soko platform, has been working with small-scale farmers to facilitate access to quality seeds, farm inputs, and services to increase production and better-quality crops. Additionally, many Kenyan potato farmers still use traditional farming methods, which often result in lower yields and higher production costs. Introducing technologies such as mechanized planting, modern irrigation systems, integrated pest management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling can greatly improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and boost productivity.

Kenya’s urbanization and changing dietary habits have led to a rise in demand for processed potato products like chips, fries, and crisps. This has led to the increased need of potato processing varieties such as Markies, which are preferred by potato processing companies such as Sereni Fries and Simplifine. Value addition is one of the most promising growth opportunities in the sector. Diversifying into other potato-based products, such as organic potatoes or baby potatoes, can create niche markets that further boost income for farmers. With consolidated marketing, small-scale farmers can work together in groups and cooperatives to meet the demand.

Mass production of frozen fries by Sereni Fries