Nakuru youth dazzle with game-changing ideas on International Potato day
A representative from G9 Exterminators receives award from Charlene Ruto on 29 May 2025.
Nakuru County is hosting the second edition of the International Day of the Potato in Kuresoi North Sub-county, showcasing youth-driven innovations in the potato value chain.
Out of the eight innovations shortlisted in the Youth in Potato Challenge 2025, two were developed by young entrepreneurs from Nakuru, highlighting the youth’s role in promoting agricultural innovation.
G9 Exterminators emerged as the top winner, receiving Sh 50,000 in business support, while Sincy Research secured third place and was awarded Sh 20,000.
G9 Exterminators Ltd distinguished itself by combining professional pest control services with farmer education, delivered through certified Spray Service Providers.
Unlike conventional agro-input sellers, the team offers field-based, customized solutions rooted in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices and safe pesticide use.
The young team has also implemented localized pest alert systems, demonstration farms, and hands-on support to promote sustainable agriculture, reduce crop loss, and build trust with farmers.
(From left to right) Winners of the youth in potato challenge Sincy Research Ltd, G9 Exterminators and Mizizi Lishe pose for a photo after receiving awards on May 29, 2025.
Sincy Research Ltd, an innovative agritech startup, introduced a digital traceability platform powered by blockchain technology. This system is designed to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access for Irish potato farmers in Kenya.
The platform aims to enhance transparency, streamline logistics, and foster trust across the entire potato value chain—from farm to market.
Other notable innovations included Mizizi Lishe, which emerged second and seeks to extend the shelf life of potatoes to over 12 months, reduce post-harvest losses by 40 percent, and supply nutrient-rich food to schools and retail outlets while increasing farmer incomes.
Jancota focuses on providing quality certified potato seeds to farmers, while Jengah Foods is adding value by producing potato crisps, while Colnet Ventures Ltd processes nutritious potato flour for household and industrial use and also turns potato peels into affordable animal feed, thereby reducing waste.
Vitaflour converts surplus and second-grade potatoes into high-quality, nutritious flour as a healthy alternative to wheat and a new income stream for farmers. Another innovation integrates Black Soldier Fly (BSF) farming into the potato value chain, transforming organic waste into high-protein animal feed and organic fertilizer.
Young innovators were encouraged to view agribusiness as a viable and profitable career path, rather than a last resort.
The event was graced by the President’s daughter Charlene Ruto, alongside the CEO of the National Potato Council of Kenya, Wachira Kaguongo, and Nakuru County Agriculture CECM, Leonard Bor.