Potato farmers want packaging laws enforced to tame brokers

Potato farmers from Meru County are set to reap big after the recent implementation of laws governing packaging of the commodity.

According to the farmers, the law which demands that farmers package their produce in a 50 kg bag as opposed to the initial 90 kg will see producers get better value for their goods.

The farmers have urged government to ensure that the laws are fully enforced to tame brokers who have exploited farmers over the years.

However, many traders are opposed to the new laws governing potato packaging, saying they are incurring huge losses and may eventually force them out of the business.

County Director Cooperatives, Muriuki Sandy said a major crackdown will be carried out to ensure both farmers and traders adhere to the law.

Muriuki restated that the maximum weight per bag package was 50kgs and anyone contravening the law will be liable to a fine exceeding not more than 5 million shillings or a sentence not exceeding three years or both.

He appealed to farmers and traders to adhere to the laws noting that their implementation will in the long run benefit all players in the sector.

The country’s potato industry has an annual turnover of 46 billion shillings and supports livelihoods of over three million farmers.