Developments and Challenges of the Kenyan Potato Sector: Implications for Smallholder Farmers

Abstract Kenya’s potato sector has undergone notable changes over the past two decades, driven by declining yields, rising consumer demand, changing market dynamics, and efforts directed toward more inclusive and commercialized seed systems. However, the potato sector remains dominated by smallholder producers. This study analyzes these developments, with emphasis on the introduction of improved varieties, seed potato production, ware potato production, and commercialization as key components. Drawing on insights across the value chain, the study identifies the main drivers of change and the promises for strategic pathways for potato sector development. Up to 2010, only 15 potato varieties were officially registered in Kenya, most of which were introduced with foreign support and primarily selected for yield and disease resistance. By 2024, the number of registered varieties had increased to 77, accompanied by the emergence of over 30 private seed companies engaged in seed potato multiplication and commercialization. Many of these companies adopted early generation seed technologies, such as the production of rooted apical cuttings or the production of minitubers through aeroponics, marking a shift toward commercial, private sector driven, seed systems. The study also highlights persistent structural weaknesses in market access, particularly for smallholder farmers who remain reliant on rural intermediaries to connect with urban markets. The growing interests in the potential of a processing potato value chain are increasingly shaping sectoral priorities, resulting in adjustments in the regulatory framework such as the adoption of alternative models for National Performance Trials. However, previous interventions have often emphasized technical solutions, such as seed multiplication technologies, while overlooking essential socio-economic and institutional dimensions at the level of smallholder producers. As a result, the opportunities offered by the potato processing sector to smallholder potato producers remain to be seen.