Sweet potatoes, in all their varieties, are sweet and nutritious. So significant are these tubers that they are ranked as the sixth most important food crop in the world. While they come in different colors, the orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are growing in popularity due to their positive attributes that give them the ability to play a role in poverty alleviation, combating food insecurity and minimizing malnutrition. The variety is slowly emerging as a significant player in tackling vitamin A deficiency, especially in expectant and nursing mothers, as well as children under the age of five. It is highly rich in Vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, which is what gives it the rich orange color. This is in addition to it being rich in starch, fiber, sugars and minerals. When working with bio-fortified vines, they offer economic efficiency as the crop gives high yields within a short time. When there is plenty of the tuber, it allows for value addition in different meals which has the potential of combating malnutrition. In addition, the crops are highly tolerant to different strains in the farm including pests and diseases. This colorful variety is not only highly nutritious but also economically viable. As people continue to access information on its nutritional benefits, the demand for the orange-fleshed sweet potatoes continues to grow. This has prompted growth in both local and export markets.
