The Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA), a sub-intergovernmental organization of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems (NARES) of 15 member states, has teamed up to help potato farmers with quality seeds and modern farming techniques.
ASARECA, in collaboration with the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK), Kenya Agricultural Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Egerton University, and FiPs-Africa, is establishing demonstration plots using Rooted Apical Cutting (RAC) technology to multiply the market-demanded potato varieties for members of potato cooperatives or innovation platforms in Nyandarua and Nakuru counties.
KALRO has on-farm demonstration plots that will focus on promoting the use of rooted apical cuttings (RAC) for seed of preferred potato varieties in the country Elias Kamau, a KALRO scientist based in Muguga, said a farmer-managed on-farm demonstration plot would enhance the knowledge and capacity of farmers on profitable, innovative, and rapid multiplication technologies to produce certified seed potatoes. "The demo plots will also be used as farmer training centers on good agronomic practices. The practice will enhance the capacity of smallholder farmers to adopt innovations and technologies for potato production," he added.
Kamau noted that the overall objective of the Innovation Ecosystem for Inclusive Rural Transformation and Livelihoods in Eastern Africa (AIRTEA) project is to achieve sustainable agrarian livelihoods and rural transformation by fostering an inclusive innovation environment. "The specific objectives are to strengthen the capacities of youth and women in East Africa's multi-stakeholder innovation platforms and link to solutions within national, regional and global food systems," said the KALRO scientist.
