Sweet potato farming in Kenya is one of the most reliable agribusiness ventures for both small- and large-scale farmers. The crop is widely consumed across the country, and demand remains high throughout the year.
Whether boiled, roasted, or processed into flour, sweet potatoes are a staple food for many households. The good news is that the crop is easy to grow, requires minimal inputs, and matures quickly.
If you’re looking to start farming with low risk and high returns, sweet potatoes are an excellent option. This guide offers insights into the process and profitability of sweet potato farming in Kenya.
Understanding Sweet Potato Farming In Kenya
Sweet potato farming in Kenya thrives in both highland and lowland regions, depending on the variety grown. It is a rain-fed crop, though supplementary irrigation can improve yields in dry areas.
Farmers can expect high returns due to low production costs and a ready market. From choosing the right variety to harvesting, every step plays a role in the final yield and income.
Kenyan farmers have access to several high-yield and disease-resistant sweet potato varieties. These include:
- Kemb 23
- SPK 004
- Kemb 10
- KSP 20
- CIP Selection
- Naspato
- Tainain
- Kemp 36
Each variety performs well under specific conditions. SPK 004 and Kemb 23, for instance, are preferred in regions with moderate rainfall and temperatures above 24°C. Before planting, ensure you select a variety suitable for your region’s ecological conditions.
Sweet potatoes grow best in areas with:
- Annual rainfall of 750–1000 mm
- Altitudes up to 2100 m above sea level
- Temperatures above 24°C
- Well-drained sandy loam soils
- Soil pH between 5.6 and 6.6
Propagation and Planting Methods
Sweet potatoes are mostly propagated using vine cuttings. These cuttings are more productive and disease-resistant compared to using tubers. For best results, select healthy vines about 25–30 cm long.
There are two common planting methods used in sweet potato farming in Kenya:
1. Planting on mounds
This is popular in areas with heavy rainfall or poor drainage. It involves:
- Planting clusters of 4–6 vines per mound
- Alternatively, planting 2–4 vines evenly spaced on each mound
Spacing is important to ensure good tuber development and prevent overcrowding.
2. Planting on ridges
This method is ideal for flat and moderately sloped land. It involves:
- Single rows: Vines are planted in the middle of each ridge, spaced 30 cm apart
- Double rows: Vines are planted on both sides of the ridge, spaced 30 cm between plants and 50–60 cm between rows
Sweet potatoes don’t require heavy use of fertiliser. In most cases, adding well-decomposed farmyard manure is enough to improve soil fertility. However, if the soil is poor, a top-up with organic compost is recommended.
Harvesting and Market Opportunities
Sweet potatoes can be harvested in two stages. The first harvest comes after 2 months when the leaves can be picked and sold as vegetables. This offers farmers an extra source of income early in the growing cycle.
The main harvest takes place between 3 to 6 months after planting. The exact time depends on the variety and ecological conditions. To harvest, farmers gently dig around the base of the plant and pull up the mature tubers.
A well-managed sweet potato farm can yield between 10–20 tons per hectare. This makes it a very rewarding crop compared to others that require more inputs and longer growing periods.
In Kenya, the market for sweet potatoes is mostly local. Farmers sell directly to consumers, market vendors, or brokers. Prices can range from Ksh 50 per kilo in small markets to Ksh 3,500 per bag in urban areas. The price varies depending on the season, supply, and demand.
Apart from local markets, there is growing interest in value-added sweet potato products. These include:
- Sweet potato crisps
- Sweet potato flour
- Animal feed from peels and vines
Venturing into these areas can increase profits, especially for farmers who grow on a large scale.
