RAC technology uses tissue culture to produce disease-free seedlings that increase yields by 40%. Recent fieldwork at Lengechek Cooperative addressed implementation challenges and distribution needs to scale this innovation nationally.
Rooted Apical Cuttings (RAC) represent a transformative technology designed to overcome the persistent challenge of low-quality, disease-prone seed potatoes. Unlike traditional seeds, RAC seedlings are produced from tissue culture, ensuring they are genetically pure, disease-free, and available for planting throughout the year. This technology addresses the fundamental issue of seasonal availability and soil-borne infection that often plagues conventional seeds.
Farmers who have adopted RAC technology report significant improvements in crop health and productivity. Field reports from regions like Nakuru and Nyandarua indicate that using RAC can increase yields by 30–40% compared to traditional seeds while simultaneously reducing crop losses from major threats like bacterial wilt. The National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK) actively supports this innovation by coordinating research and facilitating market linkages for farmers.
On March 13, 2026, the KSPI consortium, alongside the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), concluded fieldwork activities at the Lengechek Potato Farmers Cooperative RAC screen house. This engagement focused on the practical implementation and marketing of RAC, allowing participants to share insights and reflect on real-world experiences at the screen house level. These collaborative site visits are essential for aligning stakeholders on technical and commercial priorities.
The widespread adoption of RAC still faces systemic hurdles, including the need for more investment in tissue culture labs and highly skilled technicians. Furthermore, distribution networks must be expanded to ensure these high-quality seedlings are accessible to farmers in remote regions. Bridging these gaps is critical for turning RAC from a niche innovation into a national standard for potato production across the country.
