This archive report was first published on 25 January 2022.
On January 25, 2022, the Kenyan government and Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) agreed to develop a roadmap within two weeks to establish a manufacturing plant that will supply the restaurant with frozen processed chips.
The consultative meeting between the Ministry of Trade and KFC aimed to address issues related to accessing locally processed chips that meet the company's global quality standards and food safety specifications.
Trade PS Johnson Weru emphasized the government's commitment to creating a conducive business environment, protecting foreign investors, and promoting Kenyan interests, including job creation and value addition of agricultural products.
Weru promised to engage the Treasury for funds to fast-track the procurement of the plant, which could be upgraded and equipped with technology to supply local and regional consumers of the processed chips.
Jacques Theunissen, CEO of the local KFC franchise, clarified that the ongoing potato shortage was due to a lack of suppliers of semi-cooked frozen chips, not the quality of locally grown potatoes.
Theunissen expressed optimism that the government will assist KFC in accessing the product locally, supporting the local economy and reducing shipping costs and time.
Earlier, a tweet by the franchise announcing a shortage of chips sparked reactions from Kenyans, with some criticizing the company for being insensitive to potato farmers struggling to find a market for their produce.
