In a move to strengthen the agricultural sector and potato cultivation, Tanzania, in partnership with the Dutch Embassy, has unveiled a comprehensive guidebook for the registration of potato seed varieties in an initiative to enhance the crop’s local farming landscape.
According to Wiebe de Boer, Dutch Ambassador to Tanzania, this is a significant milestone in the ongoing journey to bolster production and ensure food security.
“Over the span of ten years, the partnership between Tanzania and the Netherlands has led to the inception of this initiative. It not only prompted Dutch potato farmers to register their varieties in Tanzania but also garnered investments aimed at bolstering the expansion of the potato value chain,” said de Boer during launching ceremony held in Dar es Salaam last week.
He further added that potatoes are staple food in ensuring food security, generating income for local farmers, and creating job opportunities.
High-quality seeds
Highlighting the importance of efficiency and productivity in potato farming, the ambassador underscored that achieving success in the sector hinges on utilizing high-quality seeds and adhering to best agricultural practices.
He proudly highlighted the Netherlands’ diverse array of over 250 potato varieties, cultivated for various purposes such as cooking, frying, crisping, baking, seed production, and starch processing.
The Netherlands boasts a repertoire of more than 250 potato varieties tailored for diverse applications such as boiling, French fries, crisps, baking, seed production, and starch processing.
Dr. Patrick Ngwediagi, the Director General of the Tanzania Seed Certification Institute (TOSCI), said that the guidebook would serve as a valuable resource for farmers and both local and foreign investors looking to engage in potato production.
“The introduction of this book marks a pivotal achievement as it will provide farmers with insights into the policies and regulations governing the agricultural sector, along with the challenges and opportunities present in the country,” said Ngwediagi.
The book will provide farmers and innovators with a comprehensive guide, leading them through the process of seed registration in the country, ensuring the production of high-quality seeds and fostering growth in the agricultural sector.
Advancing potato production
Mr. Bart Pauwels, the Agricultural Counsellor at the Netherlands Embassy, affirmed the embassy’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with the government, NGOs, and the private sector to advance potato production.
Over the past decade, Tanzania and the Netherlands have partnered in potato production, resulting in the registration of 16 potato varieties, with 12 of them being Dutch varieties recognized for their high yields, drought resistance, and pest resilience.
In further support of the sector, the Netherlands Embassy is aiding TOSCI in developing step-by-step guidance on the procedures for registering potato varieties for commercial purposes.
Ready for implementation
TOSCI has officially endorsed these guidelines for implementation in Tanzania. A delegation of 30 Dutch potato breeders, led by Mr. Feico Bonn representing the HZPC Dutch potato seeds breeding organization, participated in the launch event.
Their primary goal was to acquaint themselves with market demands and preferences, as well as to gather feedback directly from farmers. This gathered information will be instrumental in driving research and development efforts to create new potato varieties tailored specifically for Tanzania, thus offering valuable insights for investors seeking to register varieties in the country.
With the registration of additional varieties, farmers gain access to a broader range of options, each serving a distinct purpose and application. This expansion also results in heightened availability and utilization of high-quality seeds, stimulates both local and international investments in seed potatoes, and fosters an investment-friendly atmosphere by providing clarity on procedural matters.
