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PRESIDENT RUTO UNVEILS CUTTING-EDGE FACILITY TO BOOST POTATO INDUSTRY IN MERU COUNTY

H.E the President Dr. William Ruto officially commissioned the Ngusishi Cold storage in Meru County

With a capacity to store 2000 metric tonnes per year, this state-of-the-art facility incorporates cutting-edge technology to maintain optimal temperatures for the stored potatoes. Serving over 14,000 farmers, the facility ensures minimal wastage and incorporates advanced grading and sorting equipment, enhancing the competitiveness of the potatoes in both local and international markets.

Addressing farmers during the commissioning, President Ruto said that the cold storage project is a testament to the potential of our nation’s productive capacity and the Government’s commitment to creating sustainable solutions for MSMEs in the agricultural sector, and especially towards achieving food security.

Meru County, with over 17,000 hectares dedicated to potato production, contributes substantially to the national potato yield. However, challenges such as inadequate storage facilities, post-harvest losses, and limited value addition have impeded the sector’s growth. The newly commissioned cold storage facility is expected to address these issues, safeguarding the livelihoods of farmers and fostering sectoral growth.

H.E the President Dr. William Ruto addressing farmers during the official opening of the Ngusishi Cold Storage Facility in Meru County

The cold storage facility, part of a Kshs 300 million investment covering Kisii and Nyandarua Counties, aims to minimize post-harvest losses, ensure the economic viability of potato farming, and create competitive and sustainable jobs along the value chain. The three projects collectively contribute to increasing the income of smallholder farmers and rural entrepreneurs engaged in potato and vegetable production.

Operationalized by the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority, these projects, along with other initiatives such as the Constituency Industrial Development Centers and access to finance through the Hustler Fund, underscore Kenya’s efforts to become a key player in the global agricultural market.

Highlights from the opening ceremony

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