Solynta, a pioneering hybrid potato breeding technology firm hailing from the Netherlands, and FreshCrop Limited, Kenya’s foremost producer of seed tubers, have formalized a strategic partnership aimed at advancing hybrid true potato innovation within Kenya. This collaboration will foster the creation of high-quality hybrid potato seed tubers cultivated from hybrid true potato seeds. The primary objective of this partnership is to address the persistent scarcity of clean starting materials in the region, thereby granting farmers access to disease-free seed tubers. Leveraging Solynta’s non-GMO breeding technology, these seed tubers will empower farmers to cultivate potatoes with tailored beneficial traits, resulting in significantly enhanced yields while minimizing risks.
FreshCrop remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering local farmers by providing them with clean, top-tier seed tubers that promise bountiful yields and an improved quality of life across Kenya.
“There’s a surging demand for pristine initial resources within Kenya’s potato sector,” emphasizes Chris Gasperi, Managing Director of FreshCrop. “The presence of prevailing potato diseases significantly undermines yield and impairs overall potato quality. Our constant pursuit of innovative solutions to address these issues has led us to partner with Solynta. Their hybrid technology and true seeds represent the kind of groundbreaking innovation our industry needs. We’re actively collaborating with Solynta to ensure that FreshCrop delivers the most innovative and well-suited products to our customers in the Kenyan market.”
Charles Miller, Director of Business Development at Solynta, underscores the shared values driving this partnership. “Much like FreshCrop, Solynta is deeply committed to supporting potato farming communities and ensuring the availability of nutritious food for the global population,” Miller explains. “Our aim is to revolutionize the entire potato value chain, from seed to consumption, by unlocking its true potential. We firmly believe in empowering local farming communities by providing them with clean, high-quality starting materials adapted to local growing conditions. We envision adding value to local farmers by introducing specific genetic traits tailored to the Kenyan climate and soil.”
Gasperi further elaborates, “Solynta’s cutting-edge technology enables the rapid and precise development and improvement of potato varieties. This non-GMO technology ensures that potatoes can continue to thrive as a cash crop, even in the face of changing climate conditions. These high-quality seeds hold the promise of elevating the livelihoods of local farmers and enhancing nutritional security. It’s evident to us that these new hybrid potatoes offer tremendous advantages. Moreover, we’ve established a robust production and distribution infrastructure that facilitates the efficient and swift dissemination of clean starting materials to Kenya’s rural communities. This ensures that all farmers can reap the benefits, even in the remotest areas.”