Sweet Potato Production Course
Course overview
Sweet potato farming plays a crucial role in Kenya’s agriculture, significantly impacting food security, household livelihoods, and the national economy. Sweet potatoes are a nutritious tuber, widely consumed across all social classes in Kenya. They are not only a staple food that often replaces bread but also a key component in the diet of many households due to their rich nutritional benefits. They are a vital crop in combating micronutrient deficiencies due to their high vitamin and mineral content. The growing market demand for sweet potatoes is driven by their health benefits, making them an alternative to many consumers.
This manual aims to support a diverse range of stakeholders in the sweet potato value chain by providing practical and comprehensive guidance tailored to Kenya’s varied farming conditions. It offers insights into cultivating sweet potatoes effectively, considering the unique environmental and geographical factors of different regions to enhance productivity.
Additionally, the manual addresses current challenges in sweet potato farming, including unsustainable practices, and offers recommendations for adopting climate-resilient and environmentally friendly methods. It is an essential resource for smallholder and large-scale farmers looking to improve yields and maintain high-quality production. Agricultural students, professionals, scientists, and researchers will find valuable information that complements their studies and research, supporting ongoing advancements in sweet potato farming.
Course Objectives
To provide a comprehensive understanding of sweet potato production in Kenya, covering key agricultural practices and regional considerations.
To strengthen skills in sustainable sweet potato production techniques, promoting environmentally friendly and climate-resilient farming.
To offer a detailed overview of the current landscape of sweet potato production in Kenya, including trends and challenges.
To build proficiency in post-harvest management, with a focus on strategies to reduce losses and improve food safety.
Expected Outcomes
Improved understanding of sweet potato production in Kenya, including region-specific practices and environmental factors.
Enhanced capacity to implement sustainable practices along the sweet potato value chain, fostering climate resilience and environmental sustainability.
Strengthened skills in applying best post-harvest strategies, effectively minimizing losses and waste while maintaining product quality.
Increased ability to identify and analyze gaps in sweet potato production, fostering opportunities for further research and innovation.
Target audience.
Smallholder farmers
Large scale farmers
Agricultural students
Agricultural scientists
Researchers
Module 1: Introduction to Sweet Potato Growing in Kenya 3
Module 2: Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in Sweet Potato Production 6
Module 3: Crop Management and fertilizer application 10
Module 5: Pest and Disease Management in Sweet Potato Production 11
Module 6: Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling of Sweet Potatoes 15