The Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) is advancing potato research to address production challenges facing farmers. The research focuses on improved varieties, disease diagnostics, and seed multiplication technologies. This initiative aims to improve productivity in the potato value chain, which is crucial for household food budgets. Rising Irish potato prices have underscored the importance of KALRO's research.
During a benchmarking visit by international delegates attending the 13th World Potato Congress, researchers at KALRO's Horticulture Research Centre (HRC) in Tigoni, Limuru, demonstrated technologies to improve disease management and access to quality planting materials. The congress, held in Kenya from October 26 to 30, brought together approximately 1,000 delegates from 67 countries. The event provided a platform for exchanging knowledge on potato research, seed production, mechanization, storage, and processing.
KALRO Director General, Dr. Patrick Ketiem, emphasized that research and innovation are central to addressing challenges affecting potato production. He highlighted diseases and access to quality planting materials as key areas of focus. Dr. Ketiem stated that improved varieties and innovative seed production technologies aim to strengthen productivity and support sustainable livelihoods. The research initiatives are part of KALRO's work in developing improved potato varieties.
At the Plant Pest and Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, researchers demonstrated disease identification techniques. They highlighted blackleg as one of the potato diseases affecting farmers, which can be confused with bacterial wilt. Accurate diagnosis is crucial in determining appropriate management measures and preventing further spread. The laboratory plays a critical role in supporting farmers through disease diagnosis and management.
The delegation also visited the regional potato breeding hub, where HRC Tigoni Centre Director Dr. Susan Otieno explained KALRO's breeding program. The program responds to changing market demands and consumer preferences by developing varieties suitable for processing and export markets. These include potatoes with red and white skins to meet different consumer preferences. The breeding program is critical in improving potato productivity.
At the early-generation seed production facilities, researchers demonstrated hydroponic greenhouse production and tissue culture technologies. These technologies are used to multiply quality planting materials, including the production of rooted apical cuttings using coco peat as a growing medium. The facility produces more than 50,000 rooted apical cuttings monthly to support access to quality planting materials. This supports farmers in improving potato productivity.
The research initiatives form part of KALRO's efforts to develop improved potato varieties, strengthen disease management, and expand seed production. The aim is to support farmers and improve productivity along the potato value chain. By advancing potato research, KALRO seeks to address production challenges and support sustainable livelihoods. The organization continues to play a critical role in Kenya's agricultural sector.
Key points
- KALRO advances potato research through improved varieties, disease diagnostics, and seed multiplication technologies.
- The research aims to address production challenges facing farmers and improve productivity in the potato value chain.
- The 13th World Potato Congress was held in Kenya, bringing together delegates from 67 countries to exchange knowledge on potato research.
