Seed potato systems in Kenya : a case study

While systems of botanical seed reproduction have been extensively studied, the seed systems of vegetatively reproduced crops are relatively undocumented although they are a major food source in many countries. This report, one of a series of case studies of seed potato programs in developing countries, examines the seed potato systems in Kenya. These systems are dominated by farmer-based informal seed systems. One informal system has a rapid turnover of a large number of varieties in an apparent substitution for normal seed renovation. Another system has the expected seed flows from advantaged areas and a stable selection of varieties. The formal system is a single organized seed production program of which the major components are split between several Ministry of Agricultural agencies and a parastatal firm. The government of Kenya has skillfully managed special development projects to establish major portions of the official seed system. Quality control elements are especially well-organized. However, not all projects have had a sustainable impact and the tenuousness of core government funding has weakened several key elements of the system, notably pre-basic seed production. The formal system has not been able to match varieties in seed production with varieties popular among farmers. The history of development of the formal sector has emphasized production aspects of certified seed. Until recently, the development of seed distribution and promotion has been neglected. Currently, there is a commercially oriented marketing system that does not reach the majority of farmers. (Author abstract)