Production and marketing of onions in Kenya: status, problems and potential

Production and marketing of onions in Kenya: status, problems and potential

1993

A:PS

Onions are grown widely in Kenya as rainfed or irrigated crops primarily for domestic consumption. The estimated area under commercial onions in 1990/91 was over 1852 ha, of which 790 ha was irrigated. These figures do not include the considerable areas cultivated in backyard and kitchen gardens. The national average yields is 10 t/ha. The varieties grown are pungent and red skinned, mainly cvs. Tropicana Hybrid, Red Creole and Bombay Red. The main diseases are purple blotch (Alternaria porri) and downy mildew (Peronospora destructor) while thrips (Thrips tabaci) are a common pest. Major constraints to production include low yielding cultivars susceptible to diseases and with short shelf life; poor seed quality and availability, since all seed is imported; and poor production and postharvest practices. Recent trials have shown that yields can be doubled by adoption of newly introduced cultivars with improved shelf life and bulb yield. Local seed production appears feasible. Onions are mainly marketed by the Horticultural Crops Development Authority (HCDA) or its appointed agents in scheduled (gazetted) areas where onion marketing is regulated. The chief markets for the onions handled by HCDA are the main urban centres. Prices vary throughout the year depending on the supply and demand situation. Although Kenya does not export onions at present, there is potential which could be exploited.

no.5:18-23, ONION NEWSLETTER FOR THE TROPICS

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