In Uasin Gishu County, where potato farming is a cornerstone of agricultural production, a transformative project is underway that aims to address the persistent issue of post-harvest losses. The county government, under the leadership of Governor Jonathan Bii, is constructing modern cold storage facilities in Ainabkoi subcounty, specifically in the Olare-Ainabkoi ward. These cold rooms will have the capacity to store over 1,500 metric tonnes of potatoes annually, a significant boost for the more than 5,000 potato farmers in the region.
Tackling Post-Harvest Losses
Post-harvest losses remain a critical challenge for farmers in Uasin Gishu, who often sell their produce at throwaway prices due to the lack of adequate storage facilities. Governor Bii highlighted the urgent need for the cold storage project, stating, “This project will solve many challenges for our potato farmers who have been selling produce at a throwaway price for fear of getting rotten due to poor storage.”
The introduction of cold storage is expected to minimize wastage, enhance quality, and increase the marketability of the potatoes, thereby allowing farmers to sell their produce at more competitive prices. Once operational, these cold rooms will provide a sustainable solution, preserving the quality of potatoes and ensuring that farmers can sell their harvest at optimal times.
Technological Advancements
The cold storage facilities will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to maintain optimal temperatures, ensuring that the potatoes remain fresh for extended periods. This modern approach to storage is crucial for enhancing the standards required for both local and international markets. The technology employed will not only preserve the potatoes but also ensure compliance with market standards, allowing farmers to tap into more lucrative markets.
The government’s investment in technology for the cold storage facilities reflects a broader vision of enhancing agricultural productivity in the region. As Uasin Gishu continues to lead in potato production, these advancements are timely and essential for maximizing the potential of the county’s agricultural sector.
A Holistic Approach to Development
Governor Bii’s Nguzo Kumi (Ten-point) agenda emphasizes infrastructural development, strategic planning, and sustainable growth. His administration is committed to implementing projects that meet the holistic needs of Uasin Gishu residents. The cold storage project aligns perfectly with this vision, as it not only addresses immediate agricultural challenges but also contributes to the long-term economic development of the region.
In discussions with the public works section, the governor has highlighted the importance of quality design and execution of projects to ensure that they effectively serve the community’s needs. The focus on infrastructure development is crucial for fostering a conducive environment for farmers, enabling them to thrive and sustain their livelihoods.
Farmer Support and Expectations
The response from the local farming community has been overwhelmingly positive. Farmers like Ben Kiara have expressed their excitement about the construction of the cold storage facilities. Kiara remarked, “We are excited about the coming of cold rooms because we have been yearning for such facilities to help us reduce losses we incur after harvesting.” This sentiment reflects a broader desire among farmers for improved market conditions and storage solutions that will allow them to maximize the value of their crops.
The cold storage facilities are expected to alleviate the burdens faced by farmers during peak harvest seasons, when the market can be flooded with potatoes, leading to plummeting prices. By enabling farmers to store their produce for longer periods, they will have the flexibility to sell when prices are more favorable.
Future Plans: A Processing Plant
Looking ahead, Uasin Gishu County is not only focusing on storage solutions but also on value addition through the establishment of a potato processing plant. The county has initiated discussions with Forsam Development Limited, a German company, to explore the feasibility of setting up a potato chips processing facility. This strategic move aims to provide a stable market for local potato farmers, enhance the value of their produce, and create job opportunities in the region.
Trade and Cooperatives Executive Martha Cheruto has emphasized the county’s commitment to attracting investors to enhance agricultural production. She stated, “We are fully committed to supporting this project and ensuring that the people of Uasin Gishu and neighboring counties will benefit by accessing easy markets for their produce.” This commitment highlights the county’s proactive approach to creating an environment conducive to investment and growth.
The establishment of a processing plant will not only benefit farmers but will also play a crucial role in the overall economic development of Uasin Gishu. By adding value to the potatoes produced in the region, the county can stimulate job creation and enhance food security.
The Need for Increased Production
As the plans for the processing plant take shape, there is a pressing need for farmers to scale up their potato production. Trade Chief Officer Victorine Kapkiai has underscored the importance of educating farmers about the benefits of large-scale production to meet the demands of the processing facility once it is established. This educational initiative is vital for ensuring that farmers are well-prepared to seize the opportunities presented by the processing plant.
Uasin Gishu County currently produces over 150,000 tonnes of potatoes annually, primarily in the subcounties of Ainabkoi and Kesses. The farmers are keen to increase production to meet both local and regional demands, especially as neighboring counties like Elgeyo Marakwet also rely heavily on potato farming as a crucial food crop.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Potato Farmers
The construction of cold storage facilities in Uasin Gishu represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges faced by potato farmers. By minimizing post-harvest losses and improving the quality of produce, these facilities will empower farmers to achieve better market prices and enhance their livelihoods.
As the county moves toward establishing a processing plant, the focus on value addition and increased production will be critical for the long-term success of Uasin Gishu’s agricultural sector. With the support of the county government and initiatives aimed at attracting investment, the future looks promising for potato farmers in this region.
The cold rooms and the anticipated processing plant symbolize hope and resilience for the farmers, enabling them to thrive in a competitive agricultural landscape while contributing to food security and economic growth in Uasin Gishu and beyond.
