Building foundations for small-grower potato producers in the Eastern Cape

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

The Eastern Cape plays a critical role in advancing small-scale agriculture in South Africa, with potato production offering significant potential to improve food security and household income. As the country’s most important staple crop, potatoes provide an opportunity for small growers to participate more meaningfully in commercial agriculture and local food systems.

In support of this objective, a recent joint initiative with Tanager facilitated the establishment of small-grower potato projects: two in OR Tambo District, one in Alfred Nzo District, and one in Chris Hani District in the Eastern Cape. The identified lead producers will form part of a three-year initiative supported by the Allan and Gill Gray Philanthropy foundation, aimed at formalising agri-enterprises and providing capacity-building to enhance sustainability.

The initiative marked a transition from planning and preparation to practical, in-field skills transfer, ensuring that producers and Tanager’s agronomists were equipped with the knowledge required to successfully establish their potato crops.

Practical skills and training

The project visits focussed on hands-on demonstrations of potato planting practices. At each of the five smallholdings, both producers and Tanager’s agronomists received training on essential agronomic principles, including correct row and plant spacing, optimal planting depth, appropriate seed variety and generation selection, and the correct handling of certified seed tubers. These practices are among the most fundamental to potato production.

Rather than relying on conventional classroom-based training, the programme adopted an interactive, field-based approach. Producers actively participated in the planting process, allowing them to ask questions, exchange experiences, and immediately apply recommended techniques in their own fields. This practical engagement is crucial to ensure that technical guidelines are thoroughly understood and effectively implemented.

The importance of proper planting practices was consistently stressed. For many participating producers, this initiative represented a meaningful step towards more structured, efficient, and commercially viable potato production.

Strengthening grower support

Beyond technical training, the field visits also strengthened relationships with producers and reinforced a commitment to ongoing support from the potato industry and other stakeholders within the province. As the projects progress, ongoing efforts will focus on supporting producers in translating sound planting practices into sustainable production outcomes.

Initiatives of this nature are vital for strengthening the small-grower potato sector, promoting inclusivity, and contributing to the long-term development of South Africa’s potato industry. Ultimately, ensuring that small-scale producers have access to skills, resources, and support is essential for advancing sustainable food security and rural livelihoods. – Sifiso Mhlanga and Dikgetho Mokoena, Potatoes SA

For more information, send an email to dikgetho@potatoes.co.za.