Egerton University has showcased innovative potato seed production technologies at the World Potato Congress, highlighting how university research is creating agribusiness opportunities for young people while addressing challenges facing Kenya’s potato farmers.

The international gathering, bringing together agricultural leaders, researchers and innovators from 62 countries, provided a platform for the University to demonstrate practical solutions developed through the Transforming African Agricultural Universities to Advance Agro-Entrepreneurship (TAGDev 2.0) programme.

 Vibrant young potato plantlets growing in propagation trays, representing tissue-culture-derived seed technology for rapid, pathogen-free multiplication

The Congress, bringing together agricultural leaders, researchers and innovators from 62 countries, provided a platform for the University to showcase innovations under the Transforming African Agricultural Universities to Advance Agro-Entrepreneurship (TAGDev 2.0) programme.

Led at Egerton University by Prof. Nancy Mungai, TAGDev 2.0 supports agricultural innovation, youth entrepreneurship and community transformation.

Prof. Anthony Kibe, who leads the potato innovations, showcased three technologies: aeroponics, apical rooted cuttings (ARC) and true potato seed (TPS).

These technologies seek to improve access to quality planting materials, reduce disease risks and enhance productivity while creating commercial opportunities for young agripreneurs.

Participants engaged in an interactive breakout session and strategy discussion on sustainable potato research, crop diversification, and market linkages.