Angola

Potato cultivation in Angola thrives mainly in the fertile highlands of Huambo province — the country’s leading production area — along with neighboring regions like Bié and Cuanza Sul. Grown at altitudes between 1,800 and 2,000 meters, Angola’s potatoes benefit from ideal agroclimatic conditions, allowing farmers to harvest two to three times a year. Key planting seasons typically occur between October–January, February–May, and June–September, with some variations depending on local climates.

Beyond Huambo, the provinces of Huila, Malanje, Benguela, Namibe, and parts of Cuanza Sul also present strong potential for potato production, thanks to their warm, dry, and humid environments. In 2023, Angola produced approximately 501,623 tons of potatoes, with the bulk coming from the Huambo region, particularly around the Bié Plateau.

Despite favorable growing conditions, productivity remains limited by outdated farming methods, restricted access to high-quality seed potatoes, and weak infrastructure. However, Angola’s potato sector is rapidly evolving. Investment in modern seed varieties, farmer training, irrigation systems, and storage facilities is driving growth, supported by strong partnerships with global organizations such

During the early 16th century, Portuguese ships introduced both the potato and sweet potato to the region that would later become Portuguese West Africa. While sweet potato was quickly adopted by local farmers, potato cultivation remained largely confined to the Bié Plateau, where the combination of altitude and the cool Antarctic Ocean current created a favorable climate.

Following Angola’s independence in 1975, potato farming continued mainly in the highlands of Huambo province. Although production stagnated during the years of civil conflict, it experienced a strong revival once peace was restored, establishing potato farming as an increasingly important part of Angola’s agricultural development.