Cairo — May 31, 2026 — Africa produced 34.2 million tons of potatoes in 2024, representing about 9% of global output, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Marking the International Day of the Potato on May 30, six countries stand out as the continent’s leading producers, each surpassing 2 million tons.
Egypt led the way with 8.08 million tons, making it Africa’s top producer and one of the world’s ten largest. The Nile Delta remains the heart of cultivation, and Egypt is also the continent’s largest exporter, shipping nearly 1 million tons in 2025.
Algeria followed with 4.5 million tons, where potatoes are the most widely grown open‑field vegetable. Despite strong domestic production, Algeria remains Africa’s largest importer, underscoring the crop’s central role in the national diet.
Ethiopia harvested 4.1 million tons, concentrated in highland regions such as Oromia and Amhara. Rising urban demand for processed products like fries and chips is reshaping consumption, though exports remain limited.
South Africa produced 2.6 million tons, supported by large commercial farms and irrigation systems. It is Africa’s second‑largest exporter after Egypt, averaging more than 170,000 tons annually.
Morocco contributed 2.19 million tons, with cultivation spread across the Loukkos basin, Doukkala plain, and Atlantic coast. Most of its output is consumed domestically.
Kenya rounded out the top six with 2.18 million tons, grown largely on smallholder plots in counties such as Nakuru and Nyandarua. Kenya is Africa’s third‑largest exporter, averaging 120,000 tons annually between 2021 and 2025.
Together, these six countries highlight Africa’s growing role in global potato production, balancing domestic food security with export opportunities. With rising demand linked to urbanization and changing diets, the continent’s potato sector is poised for further growth.
