Potatoes are a climate-friendly crop, producing low levels of greenhouse gas emissions compared to other crops. They have a high yield per unit area and per unit time, making them an efficient choice for farmers. Additionally, potatoes are an excellent, low-fat source of carbohydrates, with one-fourth the calories of bread. When boiled, they contain more protein than maize and nearly twice the calcium. An average serving of potatoes with the skin on provides about 10 percent of the recommended daily intake of fiber.

Over the past decade, global production of potatoes has increased by 10 percent, boosting employment and income. However, more work is needed to fully harness the potential of potatoes in the fight against hunger and malnutrition globally. Rwanda plays a significant role in this effort, being the third-largest potato producer in Sub-Saharan Africa and the second in East Africa. Potatoes are crucial for household food security and income generation in the country. The rich volcanic soils and cool weather conditions in the Northern and Western provinces particularly favor potato cultivation.

In this context, on 30th May 2024, the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board teamed up with the International Potato Center (CIP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to celebrate International Potato Day. The event, held at the RAB/Musanze station in Musanze district, was celebrated under the theme “HARVESTING DIVERSITY, FEEDING HOPE.” It featured engaging field demonstrations, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and robust potato varieties. Building upon the legacy of the 2008 International Year of the Potato (IYP), this year's celebration highlighted the potato's role in addressing hunger, poverty, and environmental challenges, symbolizing hope for a sustainable future.

Participants gained valuable insights into seed potato technologies, emphasizing the production of high-quality seeds, and witnessed demonstrations of exemplary agricultural practices. Both public and private sectors presented exhibitions highlighting advancements in science and research within the potato industry in Rwanda. The exhibitions featured innovations in seed technologies, strategies for economic empowerment through value-added products, and a diverse array of potato-centric recipes.