Kenya boosts potato exports by 64% despite certified seed shortages

Kenya has significantly increased its potato exports amid growing regional demand, although further industry development is being constrained by shortages of quality seed potatoes and insufficient storage and processing capacity. In the year ending July 2026, the country’s potato exports rose by 64.2% to 278.54 thsd tons. Meanwhile, the average export price increased by 64.8% to $356/ton. Uganda remains the main export destination, accounting for more than 90% of all overseas shipments.

Potatoes are Kenya’s second most important agricultural crop after corn, with approximately 800 thsd farmers engaged in their cultivation. Annual planted area averages 220 thsd hectares, while production ranges between 2.2 mln and 2.4 mln tons. According to the Central Bank of Kenya’s September survey, expectations for expanding planted area improved, although the harvest outlook remains subdued due to risks of excessive rainfall and flooding of agricultural land.

One of the main challenges facing Kenya’s potato industry is limited access to certified seed potatoes, adapted varieties and modern machinery. According to the International Potato Center (CIP), these factors constrain yield growth and production expansion not only in Kenya but also in other African countries. Efforts to improve disease resistance include the development of late-blight-resistant potato varieties. In particular, research covers Shangi, a popular variety in Kenya that accounts for up to one-third of the country’s potato production.

Meanwhile, industrial potato processing is gradually expanding in Kenya, creating additional demand for raw materials of suitable quality. For example, Sereni Fries requires approximately 750 tons of potatoes per month, but supply stability is constrained by a lack of modern storage facilities, specialized processing varieties and logistical challenges. Insufficient storage infrastructure makes it difficult to ensure a consistent supply of raw materials to processing plants throughout the year and increases the market’s dependence on seasonal production fluctuations.

Prospects for Kenya’s potato industry were discussed at the 13th World Potato Congress in Naivasha, which brought together around 800 participants from more than 70 countries. Discussions focused on improving farmers’ access to quality seed potatoes, mechanization, investment in processing and the expansion of international trade. According to FAO, global potato production increased by 20% between 2007 and 2024, but Africa, despite accounting for approximately 9% of global output, represents only 5% of world potato trade. Addressing production and logistical constraints could help Kenya strengthen its position in regional markets and expand exports in the coming years.

Tags: Kenya, potato