Nairobi to Host 13th World Potato Congress in October to November, aims to boost food security
By Brian Otieno
Kenya will host the 13th World Potato Congress in October to November 2026, a first for Sub-Saharan Africa. This global event aims to boost food security, create jobs, and grow Kenya’s potato industry while showcasing its role in fighting poverty and building a stronger economy.
The World Potato Congress (WPC) has clear goals to make a lasting impact. It wants to improve food security by showing how potatoes can feed more people and reduce hunger, especially in Africa.
The event will fight poverty by helping farmers, particularly women and youth, learn new skills and find job opportunities. It will also build global partnerships, connecting Kenyan farmers and businesses with experts worldwide to boost trade and share ideas.
Sustainable farming is another focus, teaching eco-friendly ways to grow potatoes for better harvests and a healthier planet. Finally, the Congress will position Kenya as a leader in potato farming and innovation in East Africa.
“Potatoes are more than food—they’re a way to grow economies and empower communities,” said WPC President Peter VanderZaag. Hosting the Congress in Kenya will shine a light on these goals, helping farmers and businesses thrive.
The Congress, organized by the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK), Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), FreshCrop Limited, and the International Potato Center (CIP), is set to be a world-class event. Over 1,000 delegates, including farmers, researchers, and businesses from around the world, will attend.
The event will feature talks and workshops where experts share ideas on better farming, food security, and new potato technologies. Farm tours will let visitors see Kenya’s potato farms and processing centers to learn hands-on.
Networking events, like receptions, will help people make business deals and partnerships. FreshCrop Limited will host a large Farmers Field Day, inspired by past WPC events, for thousands of farmers to see new tools, seeds, and farming methods.
The Congress is planned for late October to mid-November 2026 to avoid busy tourist seasons, making hotels and tours cheaper. Keynote Professional Conference Organizers, who managed the 2022 Congress in Dublin, will ensure smooth planning and execution.
“We’ve secured the resources to deliver an event that meets global standards,” said Wachira Kaguongo, NPCK CEO. The CIP will share 50 years of potato research to help farmers grow more and earn more.
The Congress will bring big benefits to Kenya. It will create jobs in hotels, transport, and event services. Farmers will learn new skills to grow and sell more potatoes, earning better incomes. Kenya’s potato industry will connect with world markets, boosting exports. Visitors will also explore Kenya’s culture and hospitality, supporting local businesses.
“Kenya is ready to show the world how potatoes can change lives,” said Dr. Bruno Linyiru, AFA Director General. Details on registration, venues, and sponsors will be shared by August 2025.
The 13th World Potato Congress will be a chance to share knowledge, build connections, and create a brighter future for farming. “Join us in Kenya to grow ideas and harvest success,” Linyiru said.