Date: Wednesday, 8th November
Potatoes News Exclusive
In a compelling international symposium on ‘Food Systems Transformation’ held on Wednesday, 8th November, experts gathered to advocate for a more strategic and long-term vision concerning global food security. One key aspect of the discussions revolved around the transformation of African food systems, with a focus on the strategic value of food production.
Ms. M. Shava, Kenya’s ambassador to the Netherlands, emphasized that the transformation of the African food system is intricately linked to broader global contexts. She highlighted a critical issue: the financial resources required for this transformation are not reaching Africa adequately. Ms. Shava argued that the current trade laws compel African nations to add value to their produce on the Western side of the world, adversely impacting the African food systems.
Supporting Ms. Shava’s perspective, Mark Zuidhof, the operational director of Agrico, a prominent player in the potato industry, stated, “We fully agree with Ms. M. Shava’s opinion. This is exactly why Agrico produces high-quality seed potatoes locally in Kenya.” Zuidhof explained that Agrico’s approach involves empowering Kenyan farmers with locally produced seed potatoes. These potatoes are then used to grow ware potatoes, serving as raw material for the Kenyan potato processing industry.
Agrico’s variety, Markies, has emerged as the number one choice for Kenyan crisps and chips processors, adding significant value to the entire Kenyan potato value chain. Zuidhof emphasized the importance of breaking the existing trend and ensuring that value addition occurs at the place of production, ultimately benefitting local economies.
The symposium provided a platform for insightful discussions on transforming food systems globally, with a particular emphasis on Africa. Agrico, reflecting on the event, considers it a success and an inspiration for the industry’s future. For more details about the symposium and Agrico’s role, visit their official website: Agrico Potatoes News.
