International Day of Potato: Innovation Secures the Future of Potato Farming in South Africa

Potatoes: a key South African industry under pressure

This year’s theme is ‘Where potatoes grow, livelihoods flourish’. The day draws attention to the contribution of local potato producers to the agricultural economy and the role potatoes play as an affordable staple food for many South Africans. Speaking to Farmer’s Weekly, Sheila Makgato, marketing manager at Potatoes SA, said the day is an important acknowledgement of farmers and the broader agricultural value chain. “International Day of Potat…

Innovation key to the future of South Africa’s potato industry

As the world marks International Day of Potato on 30 May under the theme, "Where potatoes grow, livelihoods flourish", attention is turning to the role potato farming plays in supporting food security, rural economies and agricultural livelihoods. Maintaining the resilience of this important sector will increasingly depend on innovation, research and technologies that help growers navigate a more complex production environment.

International Day of Potato: Innovation secures the future of potato farming in South Africa

By Chris Steyn, Agricultural Economist, Syngenta South Africa Every year on 30 May the United Nations International Day of Potato celebrates one of the world’s most important food crops. Potatoes are among the most widely consumed staple foods globally because of their versatility, nutritional value, accessibility and ability to deliver reliable food supply across different […] The post International Day of Potato: Innovation secures the future …