International Day of Potato by Shenequa Williams

We are highlighting the amazing crop that is consumed by billions of people worldwide by celebrating the first-ever International Day of Potato today. Today is a chance to acknowledge the importance of potatoes to the world’s food security, nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and economic prospects. Now let’s explore the amazing world of crops.

The International Day of Potatoes in 2024 (commemorated for the very first time) has “Harvesting Diversity, Feeding Hope” as its theme. This theme emphasizes how important it is to have a diverse range of potato varieties. With more than 5000 varieties—both enhanced and conventional varieties farmed by farmers—there are plenty of choices to suit the demands of various agricultural practices, culinary philosophies, and industrial applications.

The goal is to maintain diversity because crops can become more susceptible to pests and diseases if they depend too heavily on a small number of potato varieties. We can utilize the unique characteristics of wild varieties to enhance the hardiness and nutrient value of the potatoes we cultivate. This makes sure that everyone has access to a safer and healthier food supply.

A staple of Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural and culinary traditions are sweet potatoes (Ipomoea Batatas). This adaptable root vegetable, which thrives in the tropical climate of the islands, is an essential agricultural product and a mainstay of the local diet. On island, we cultivate over sixteen (16) different types of sweet potatoes, including but not limited to, Catch Me, Ube, and Red King.

Cultivated for centuries, sweet potatoes are more resilient to some pests and adaptable to various soil and weather conditions, thus ensuring food security. They are planted during the rainy season and harvested after 4 to 6 months. Rich in vitamins A and C, fibre, potassium, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes are essential for a healthy diet and are used in a variety of traditional dishes, from roasting and boiling to baking.

Sweet potatoes are one of the major economic drivers in the area, as small-scale growers sell their produce in neighbourhood markets and dining establishments. In an attempt to increase revenue and diversify agriculture, value-added products like flour, bread and chips are being developed.

With proper management and agricultural practices, we can continue to rely on sweet potatoes as one of our main staples. HAPPY INTERNATIONAL POTATO DAY!