A changing perception
Interest in potatoes is growing rapidly across West Africa. At the same time, more and more countries are investing in local food production, creating new opportunities for local growers. According to Michel Cam, Regional Manager Northwest Africa, these developments offer Royal HZPC Group an important opportunity to contribute.
A changing perception
The potato was introduced to West Africa in the early twentieth century and was long regarded as a food for higher-income consumers.
"That perception is gradually disappearing," says Michel. "Today, potatoes are consumed much more widely. Population growth and increasing urbanisation are driving consumption in countries such as Senegal, Guinea, Niger and Mali. At the same time, more local farmers are recognising potatoes as an attractive crop."
Reducing dependence on imports
Reducing dependence on imports
"Many countries in the region want to become less dependent on imports and are investing in their own agricultural sectors. As a result, demand is increasing for high-quality seed potatoes and expertise in potato cultivation. Royal HZPC Group supports local partners with varieties, agronomic knowledge and market development."
According to Michel, the potato value chain is still developing. "There is hardly any processing industry and a large share of the harvest reaches the market at the same time. By using early, medium-early and late varieties, supply can be spread more evenly throughout the season."
Royal HZPC Group entered the region as a challenger.
Many growers still rely on the weather
Many growers still rely on the weather
Water availability is one of the biggest challenges facing agriculture in West Africa. "During the rainy season, potatoes can be grown almost everywhere. In the dry season, cultivation is often limited to low-lying areas and locations where irrigation is available," Michel explains.
Climate change, extreme temperatures and flooding are also making potato production less predictable. "We still see that the impact of climate change is not fully reflected in day-to-day farming practices. Many growers continue to rely primarily on weather conditions. The availability of fertilisers and energy, for example to power irrigation pumps, is another significant challenge. Rising fertiliser and transport costs make the efficient use of production inputs increasingly important."
From challenger to market leader
From challenger to market leader
Delivering the right varieties at the right time is essential for successful potato production in the region. "Royal HZPC Group entered the market as a challenger, but today Colomba, Libra, Panamera, Sagitta and Memphis are among the leading varieties in the region. We also see great potential in our new variety, Zelda."
According to Michel, the focus is increasingly on varieties that match local growing conditions. "Panamera is an excellent example. Under short days, it performs as an early variety, requires less nitrogen and offers better resistance to diseases. In regions where crop protection products are limited, that makes a real difference. Early varieties such as Colomba and Libra also help growers use water and other inputs more efficiently thanks to their short growing cycle."
Improving quality and storage
Improving quality and storage
Not only production, but also potato storage remains a challenge across West Africa. This requires investment as well as knowledge of storage and stock management. Many potatoes are still harvested too early, limiting their storage potential. "Storage is not a hospital," says Michel. "A crop that leaves the field in poor condition will not improve during storage." According to Michel, successful storage always starts with a healthy crop and the right variety.
Storage is not a hospital.
Significant opportunities
Significant opportunities
Despite challenges such as political stability, logistics and the availability of agricultural inputs, Michel expects the West African potato market to continue to grow strongly.
"The population is growing, the middle class is expanding and more countries are investing in local food production. As a result, we expect the potato market to grow by more than 10% annually."
"The combination of strong varieties, local production and knowledge development creates tremendous opportunities for this region. Together with our partners, Royal HZPC Group is well positioned to make a meaningful contribution."
We expect the potato market here to grow by more than 10% annually.