Russian fertiliser producer Uralchem Group is seeking to deepen its engagement with Kenyan farmers, using the 13th World Potato Congress in Naivasha to showcase its products.
The company is participating in the October 26–30 congress, which has brought together about 1,000 delegates from more than 60 countries for discussions and exchanges on potato production, research and agribusiness. Other than marketing its products, Uralchem Group is also promoting fertiliser application practices aimed at improving agricultural productivity.
The event is being held in East Africa for the first time, offering fertiliser suppliers and other agricultural businesses an opportunity to engage directly with farmers, agronomists, scientists and government representatives.
Uralchem is exhibiting a range of mineral fertilisers, including potassium chloride, urea, calcium ammonium nitrate and NPKS 27:6:6:2, it said in a statement.
It is also showcasing products from its SOLAR water-soluble fertiliser range, including concentrated calcium nitrate, potassium nitrate and MAP 12:61.
The company says visitors can obtain practical guidance on the application of its products, positioning the exhibition as an opportunity to connect fertiliser sales with agronomic support.
A field demonstration is also planned for October 30, the final day of the congress. Uralchem specialists are expected to demonstrate the effects of balanced fertilisation on designated plots, allowing agricultural producers to observe the results under field conditions.
Olga Poltavskaya, Uralchem’s marketing director, said Kenya’s selection as host reflected the country’s position as an important agricultural market.
“Uralchem Group has extensive international experience in implementing effective potato growing systems and is ready to provide farmers with tailored nutrition and agronomic support solutions,” Olga said.
She added that the company was committed to developing partnerships with farmers in Kenya and across Africa.
KENYA’S POTATO MARKET
Kenya’s potato sector provides a potential market for fertiliser suppliers seeking to expand their presence in the country’s agricultural economy.
Nakuru county, where the congress is taking place, is among Kenya’s key agricultural regions. Potato production supports livelihoods across farming, transport, trading, processing and other related activities.
According to figures cited in Uralchem’s announcement, potato growing provides direct or indirect employment for 3.5 million Kenyans and contributes more than $400 million annually to the national budget.
Appropriate nutrient application can help support plant growth and yields, although results depend on factors including soil conditions, seed quality, rainfall, pest management and the timing and quantity of fertiliser applied.
The field demonstration at the congress will give Uralchem an opportunity to present its approach to crop nutrition to farmers and agricultural professionals.
EXPANDING AGRICULTURAL TIES
Uralchem describes itself as a leading global producer of mineral fertilisers and chemical products.
Its portfolio includes Russian companies Uralchem JSC, Uralkali PJSC and TOAZ JSC, with a combined production capacity of approximately 25 million tonnes, according to the company. It employs more than 38,000 people.
Its participation in the congress places the company among businesses seeking to connect agricultural inputs with the needs of producers in a major African farming market.
