Esther Maina, a farmer in Mkogodo East ward, Laikipia county, has been cultivating the Unica potato variety for a year, noting its drought resistance, quicker maturity in three months, and higher yield. Unica potatoes have a longer shelf life of over six months and command a higher market price, with yields potentially reaching 300 90-kg bags per acre. The International Potato Centre (CIP) notes potatoes were introduced to Africa in the late 1800s, with current production supporting approximately 2.5 million people in the value chain. KALRO and CIP have developed the Unica variety, released in 2016, for its climate resilience and disease resistance. Laikipia's adoption of climate-smart agriculture, including the Unica variety, is increasing potato production, according to Agneta Makutwa, Laikipia project officer with FAO.

Source: The Star May 28, 2024 11:45 UTC