Ethiopië
Among African countries, Ethiopia has possibly the greatest potential for potato production: 70 percent of its arable land - mainly in highland areas above 1 500 m - is believed suitable for potato. Since the highlands are also home to almost 90 percent of Ethiopia's population, the potato could play a key role in ensuring national food security.
At present, potatoes are still widely regarded as a secondary crop, and annual per capita consumption is estimated at just 5 kg. However, potato growing is expanding steadily: FAO estimates that production has increased from 280 000 tonnes in 1993 to around 525 000 tonnes in 2007.
Frequently Asked Questions
Potatoes in Ethiopia are grown in four main highland areas: the Central, Eastern, Northwestern and Southern highlands, mostly above 1,500 metres. Oromia and Amhara are the leading potato-producing regions, and Ethiopia is one of Africa's largest potato producers.
Ethiopia grows potatoes in three seasons: the main rainy meher season, the shorter belg rainy season, and the dry season under irrigation. This lets Ethiopian farmers produce potatoes across different parts of the year and in different regions of the highlands.
In Ethiopia, the potato is locally known as denech. FAO sources credit a German immigrant with introducing it around 1858, after which denech spread gradually among highland farmers as an extra food source alongside traditional cereals.
Potato produces high yields in a short growing period, so Ethiopian smallholders grow it as both a food and a cash crop. It also acts as insurance when cereal harvests fail, which has made potato increasingly important for household food security.
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This content was last updated on augustus 17, 2026
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