The KSPI project is promoting structured inputs and output markets. One of the interventions that is being used to achieve this through contract farming. Therefore, NPCK, Viazi Kings, and the Laikipia County Ministry of Agriculture trained farmers on contract farming as a strategy for market access and reducing post-harvest losses.

Some of the potato varieties that the project is promoting under contract farming are Markies and Challenger. On January 30, 2025, 62 farmers in Laikipia County, Laikipia East sub-county, Umande Ward, were trained on contract farming. Among them were 32 males and 30 females.

The farmers came from over 5 established farmer groups from two wards: Umande Ward and Mukogodo East Ward. Two farmer groups. Namely, the Umande potato growers self-help group and the Mwaura Organic farmering self-help group have had previous experience with contract potato farming with a company called New Holland Chips company.

From the training, more than 8 farmers expressed interest to  immediately start contract farming with Viazi Kings limited. The plans are underway to have the contracts drawn.

Mr. Peter Lagat from Viazi Kings ltd training farmers on potato contract farming in umande ward 30/01/2025

Ms. Sarafina Mugo, NPCK Marketing officer addressing farmers. 30/01/2025.