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Potato (Solanum tuberosum) remains a minor crop in Côte d’Ivoire compared with cassava, yam, plantain and sweet potato. The country’s predominantly warm tropical climate limits large-scale potato production, as the crop performs best under cooler conditions. Production is therefore more suitable during cooler periods and in locations where temperature and water availability are favorable. Potato is mainly used as a fresh food crop, while opportunities for expansion depend on suitable varieties, quality seed, irrigation and improved crop management
Potato reached Africa relatively late, largely through European colonial expansion, with introductions occurring around the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Unlike yam and cassava, which became major crops in Côte d’Ivoire, potato remained a relatively small crop because of the country's warm conditions and the strong importance of traditional West African root and tuber crops. FAO records that potato introduction into Africa generally followed colonization, while potato production subsequently expanded mainly in areas with more suitable climates.
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This content was last updated on September 3, 2026
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