This archive report was first published on 20 August 2019.
On May 2016, the implementation of laws governing potato packaging in Meru County was introduced, aiming to benefit farmers.
According to the new law, farmers are required to package their produce in 50kg bags, a significant reduction from the initial 90kg bags.
Meru County potato farmers believe that this change will enable them to get better value for their goods, as they will be able to sell their produce in smaller quantities.
However, many traders are opposed to the new laws, claiming that they are incurring huge losses and may eventually be forced out of the business.
County Director of Cooperatives, Muriuki Sandy, has assured that a major crackdown will be carried out to ensure both farmers and traders adhere to the law.
He emphasized that the maximum weight per bag package is 50kgs, and anyone contravening the law will be liable to a fine exceeding 5 million shillings or a sentence not exceeding three years, or both.
The potato industry in Kenya has an annual turnover of 46 billion shillings and supports the livelihoods of over three million farmers.
