Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has called on investors to tap into Kenya’s potato industry, citing opportunities in local processing, commercial farming and import substitution.
Speaking at the opening of the 13th World Potato Congress in Naivasha, Kagwe said Kenya must reduce its dependence on imported potato products by expanding local production, strengthening value addition and improving farmers’ access to markets.
The congress, running from October 26 to 30, 2026, is the first to be held in Sub-Saharan Africa and has attracted 1,000 delegates from 67 countries.
Kagwe said local suppliers currently meet only 40 per cent of the market, with imports accounting for the remaining 60 per cent, presenting an investment opportunity for farmers and processors.
"This is an opportunity to substitute imports," Kagwe said during a preparatory meeting last week.
He urged investors to establish stronger links between farmers, processors, hotels, restaurants and fast-food outlets to create jobs and retain more earnings within the country.
Kagwe also invited investors to participate in the government's Land Commercialization Initiative, which seeks to lease idle public land for large-scale agricultural production.
The CS said the government is pursuing irrigation projects, including 50 mega dams, 200 medium-sized dams and 1,000 water pans and reservoirs, to reduce reliance on unpredictable rainfall.
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, Kenya produced approximately 2.2 million tonnes of potatoes worth Sh72.5 billion in 2024, down from 2.3 million tonnes in 2023.
The decline was partly attributed to erratic rainfall and diseases, particularly potato blight.
To address these challenges, Kagwe highlighted ongoing research by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the International Potato Center to develop disease-resistant potato varieties.
He said field trials of a modified Shangi potato variety had demonstrated complete resistance to late blight, potentially reducing farmers' dependence on fungicides.
Kagwe further expressed willingness to engage the National Treasury on proposals to zero-rate potato-processing machinery to encourage investment.
He challenged delegates to deliver practical solutions that improve productivity and farmers' incomes.
"A food secure, healthier, prosperous farmer is also, in my considered view, a prerequisite for a safer, stable and productive society," Kagwe said.
The congress is expected to strengthen partnerships in agricultural research, mechanization, seed production and processing, positioning Kenya to expand its potato industry and reduce imports.
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