Booms, Busts, and Emerging Markets for Potatoes in East and Central Africa 1961-2010

Potato production expanded more rapidly in Africa than in any other region of the world in recent years. This paper examines that phenomenon by focusing on the evolution of potato production, utilization, and trade in East and Central Africa. Based on an analysis of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations annual secondary data over nearly the last 50 years complemented by a review of the literature, the findings note that the long-term upward trends in production and area harvested contrast with the sharp decline in the growth rates for output, area, and yields over the last decade. In recent years, output grew rapidly in some countries and declined in others. Emerging markets include fresh potatoes as well as French fries and crisps for the growing number of urban consumers and improved quality seed. The paper concludes with a series of policy recommendations aimed at catalyzing improvements in productivity and marketing as well as capitalizing on opportunities for industry.