Potato farmers eye better yields

Smallholder potato farmers in Kenya stand to increase their yields following a deal signed between Corteva Agriscience and the National Potato Council of Kenya.

The partnership will introduce better technologies and show farmers how to improve potato yields through the use of quality seeds, pest and disease management and post-harvest management.

Since April 2020, seven demonstration plots have been set up in Kinangop, Olkalau, Mau Narok, Bomet Central, Kieni East, Kieni West and Ainabkoi sub-counties. More than 400 farmers have been trained on recommended practices.

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Francis Karanja, Corteva Agriscience Sales Leader, Crop Protection in East Africa, said, "The technology we are bringing on board is meant to increase the potato yields per hectare in the small holdings".

Mr Wachira Kagoungo from the Potato Council of Kenya noted that farmers produce low yields due to poor quality seeds, poor use of technology, and lack of expertise in disease and pest control.

"Our objective at the council is to assist farmers produce high yields per hectare, free of diseases and pests," said Mr Kagoungo. Pests and diseases contribute to an estimated 80 per cent reduction in production, he said.

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