The Ministry of Agriculture has announced strict enforcement of the 50-kilogramme packaging limit for potatoes to protect farmers from exploitation by middlemen and ensure fair earnings for producers.

Speaking during the celebrations of the International Day of the Potato held in Nyota Ward in Kuresoi North sub-county, Agriculture Principal Secretary Dr Paul Kiprono Ronoh stated that anyone found packaging potatoes in bags exceeding the 50kg limit will face arrest and prosecution.

Ronoh emphasised the importance of adhering to the 2019 Potato Regulations, which set the 50kg standard as a protective measure against the longstanding issue of underpricing and exploitation by unscrupulous traders.

“The strict adherence to these regulations is not optional. It is a necessary step towards safeguarding our farmers and ensuring they get fair returns for their hard work,” Ronoh said.

He also revealed plans to meet stakeholders from all 28 potato-growing counties to deliberate on the requirements and enforcement of these regulations.

“The government is committed to protecting the interests of our farmers, who have long suffered at the hands of unscrupulous dealers,” he said. We will not allow this exploitation to continue,” the PS said.

To further support farmers, Ronoh announced the government’s plan to construct a cold storage facility in Kuresoi North.

The facility is expected to significantly reduce post-harvest losses, which is a major challenge for potato farmers.

Untapped opportunities

Nakuru County Deputy Governor David Kones and Agriculture CEC Leonard Bor, who were present at the event, lauded the national government’s move and urged the ministry to further support farmers by establishing additional cereal depots that will improve farmers’ access to affordable fertiliser throughout the year.  

Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) Director General Dr Bruno Linyiru encouraged youth to explore opportunities within the agricultural value chain, noting its potential to address youth unemployment.

“There are countless untapped opportunities in agriculture. We are encouraging young people to look at agriculture not just as tilling the land, but as a viable business that includes processing, logistics, marketing, and innovation,” Linyiru said.