More than 150,000 small-scale potato growers across Kenya are set to benefit from a new KSh195 million programme focused on climate-smart farming techniques.

The initiative, known as the Kenya sustainable potato initiative (KSPI), is a joint effort by the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK), Egerton University, and the Kenya Agricultural & Livestock Research Organization – (KALRO)

The three-year programme aims to boost the productivity and income of potato farmers by promoting sustainable practices, increasing access to certified seeds, and reducing post-harvest losses by half.

It will also support over 300,000 additional farmers indirectly through improvements in the potato value chain.

The initiative targets four major potato-growing counties Nyandarua, Meru, Laikipia, and Nandi. Around 40% of the participants will be women and 10% will be youth.

The project will also provide training to agricultural extension officers who will, in turn, support farmers with up-to-date farming knowledge.

Currently, Kenya’s potato production is limited by low use of certified seed, poor pest and disease management, and outdated farming methods.

The country averages only 7 tonnes per hectare, despite the potential to reach up to 40 tonnes. Demand for quality potato seed is 30,000 tonnes per year, yet production remains under 10,000 tonnes.

The programme seeks to scale up seed production to meet rising demand, introduce mechanised farming, and support environmentally friendly solutions such as renewable energy use.

It also aims to equip farmers with market access, financial services, and digital tools to increase efficiency and profitability.

Egerton University’s Prof Antony Kibe noted that potatoes are the second most important food crop in Kenya after maize and play a critical role in food security and the economy.

The KSPI project will also offer practical training opportunities for students and youth to gain real-world farming experience.