Drivers for mechanizing potato harvesting in Kenya: insights from Nyandarua County farming

Abstract

Kenya is a major producer of potatoes, with Nyandarua County leading national production, accounting for 33% of the total production of over 2.0 million tons annually. The county, situated in central Kenya, spans 3,285.7 km2 and has a population of 638,289. Its climate ranges from 12°C to 25°C, with maximum rainfall from March to May and minimum from September to December, ideal for ware potato production due to its deep loamy clay soils. This study focuses on the drivers and the viability of mechanizing potato harvesting in Nyandarua County, Kenya. Through interviews, structured questionnaires, and focus group discussions involving 792 farmers, it assessed the current mechanization levels, machinery management, and farmers’ readiness to invest in modern equipment. The research revealed that harvesting is the most labor-intensive activity (56.7%), followed by land preparation (21%), and farmers expressed a strong willingness to invest in mechanized harvesting equipment. The findings highlight the critical need for mechanization in potato farming due to the labor-intensive nature of key activities and the potential benefits in terms of cost reduction, time efficiency, and improved productivity. This study lays the groundwork for understanding the transformative impact of introducing modern machinery in potato farming, not only in Nyandarua County but also in similar agricultural settings in developing countries. Results show the advantages and the willingness of farmers to pay for the machinery.