Collaborative Effort to Benefit Smallholder Farmers in Kenya and India
Bayer and Solynta have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at commercializing and distributing true potato seeds (TPS) in the Kenyan and Indian markets. This partnership signifies Bayer’s entry into the expansive 20 million hectares global potato market and its inaugural collaboration with Solynta, a Dutch innovator in hybrid potato breeding. The collaboration seeks to introduce robust new potato varieties to smallholder farmers, leveraging the strengths of both companies to enhance potato cultivation in key regions.
The partnership will focus on integrating Solynta’s advanced potato breeding expertise with Bayer’s extensive distribution network. Unlike traditional seed tubers, which require 2500 kg per hectare and are prone to disease and spoilage, TPS offers a revolutionary alternative. Growers need only 25 grams of clean, disease-free true potato seeds per hectare, significantly reducing the risk and cost associated with seed tubers. Bayer’s established presence and distribution channels will facilitate the commercialization of these innovative potato varieties in remote areas of Kenya and India.
Peter Poortinga from Solynta and Frank Terhorst from Bayer formally signed the collaboration agreement at Solynta’s seed production facility in the Netherlands, marking the beginning of a promising partnership.
The Advantages of True Potato Seeds
Switching from traditional seed tubers to true potato seeds presents numerous benefits for the potato industry. TPS are inherently disease-free and have a considerably longer shelf life, offering a more reliable and economical option for potato growers. Unlike bulky and perishable seed tubers, true potato seeds are lightweight and can be stored and transported efficiently, making them accessible to farmers year-round.
Furthermore, hybrid breeding techniques allow TPS to be imbued with desirable traits such as enhanced disease resistance and climate resilience. This innovation aligns with Bayer’s regenerative agriculture strategy, aimed at creating resilient and sustainable food systems. “We are excited to enter the collaboration with Solynta and to further support smallholder farmers,” stated Frank Terhorst, Head of Strategy & Sustainability at Bayer’s Crop Science Division. “Seed innovation is one of our key focus areas. We expect these true potato seeds to have a positive impact on local communities and on food and nutritional security in Kenya and India.”
Summary
The collaboration between Bayer and Solynta to introduce true potato seeds in Kenya and India represents a significant advancement in potato farming. By reducing reliance on traditional seed tubers, this initiative promises to enhance disease resistance, reduce costs, and support sustainable agriculture practices. This partnership is poised to make a profound impact on smallholder farmers, improving food security and agricultural sustainability in key potato-growing regions.
