admin_county July 6, 2021

Clarification on Crops (Irish Potato) Regulations currently effected by County enforcement officers

The County Government of Nakuru wishes to clarify on the Crops (Irish Potato) Regulations that is currently being effected by enforcement officers.

The regulations recommend that all potato growers in the county register with the County Government. A farmer can either register as an individual or through an association or potato collection center.

If registering as an individual, the farmer will pay Ksh 500 per year. However, there is no penalty if the farmer chooses not to register.

For a grower association, they should register with Ksh 1000 per year, or face a fine of Ksh 500,000 or a 1-year jail term or both.

Collection centers, warehouses, marketing agents, dealers and processors should register with Ksh 1000 per year, or face a fine of Ksh 5,000,000 or 3years jail term or both.

According to Agriculture CECM Dr Immaculate Maina, the registration exercise will ensure the farm produce can be traced all the way from the growers to the market.

Registration will also enable the County to know a number of potato farmers to assist in reaching all of them when planning training sessions.

All potato sacks must weigh 50kg. The regulations are meant to end the manipulation of farmers by middlemen.