Commercial Smallholder Potato Production in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: A Critical Analysis of the Vision

Abstract Commercial potato production by smallholder farmers in South Africa is promoted for income generation and more sustainable livelihoods. We describe the vision of how smallholder farmers would produce and commercialise potato, based on policy documents and R&D. We use literature and information from two field visits and key-informants interviews to identify challenges associated with the realisation of that vision in two communities in KwaZulu-Natal. We found framing and vision of the commercial smallholder potato to be narrow and overlooking the broader context of the potato value chain. While agronomic research shows that some smallholder farmers may be able to grow a profitable potato crop, we found that establishing sustainable up- and down-stream linkages face incongruencies between the smallholders and the formal value chain actors, i.e., seed companies, Municipal Fresh Produce Markets, and supermarkets. However, we noted positive experiences in seed supply and marketing initiatives. These were related with extraordinary individuals going beyond their institutionally defined roles. Also, alternatives in seed supply and market access relying on improved seed saving practices and informal market traders offer alternatives that merit to be explored. We recommend the consideration of the broader context of the potato value chain in order to arrive at a more inclusive vision of commercial smallholder potato producer.