In a turn of events that shines a spotlight on Africa’s agricultural innovation, Kenya has stepped up to host the 13th World Potato Congress in 2026. Originally slated for Gdansk, Poland, the global gathering of potato experts will now take place in Nairobi between late October and mid-November, promising fresh perspectives, stronger local partnerships, and an unforgettable showcase of East African hospitality.
A Second Chance Seized
When the World Potato Congress Inc. and the Polish Potato Federation agreed to withdraw Gdansk as host, Kenya’s time in the sun arrived. “Initially, the 2026 Congress had been awarded to Kenya,” explained WPC President Peter VanderZaag. “We regret the earlier decision to delay Kenya’s hosting.” After a March 2025 board review, Kenya reclaimed its spot, proving that preparation, perseverance, and partnership can overcome logistical hurdles.
Why Nairobi?
Choosing Nairobi for the World Potato Congress 2026 makes strategic sense:
- Avoiding Peak Season
By scheduling the event outside Kenya’s tourism high season, delegates will enjoy lower hotel rates and better availability, an immediate benefit to both attendees and the local economy. - Regional Gateway
Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport connects easily to Africa, Europe, and beyond. Delegates from Asia, the Americas, and Australasia will find streamlined routes and modern facilities. - Vibrant Potato Industry
Kenya’s potato sector has seen remarkable growth under the National Potato Policy (2019) and the National Potato Strategy (2021–2025). Government backing means research, seed distribution, and market access are all moving forward at pace.
Strong Local Leadership
A coalition of Kenyan institutions will ensure the Congress runs smoothly:
- National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK)
Led by CEO Wachira Kaguongo, NPCK has already secured financial and logistical support from corporate sponsors and global potato organizations. Their farmer-first approach will shape field visits and workshops. - Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA)
Dr. Bruno Linyiru, AFA’s Director General, praises Kenya’s leadership in modern agriculture. “Our policies create an environment where innovation flourishes,” he notes, highlighting public-private collaborations that strengthen seed systems and processing facilities. - International Potato Center (CIP)
Dr. Joyce Maru, CIP’s Regional Director, sees the Congress as “an opportunity to boost collaboration and develop innovations that improve food security and trade across the region.” - FreshCrop Limited
CEO Chris Gasperi champions smallholder engagement through FreshCrop’s hubsite delivery model, which brings seeds, training, and tools directly to farmers. Their 2024 field day attracted 8,000 participants, underlining the hunger for knowledge and technology. - Professional Conference Organizers
Drawing on experience from the 2022 Congress in Dublin, these experts will handle registration, logistics, and on-site management, leaving Kenyan hosts free to focus on content and partnerships.
What to Expect
With over 1,000 delegates anticipated, the Congress will feature:
- Plenary Sessions – Keynote addresses on global potato trends, market dynamics, and climate-smart agriculture.
- Technical Workshops – Hands-on demonstrations of seed treatment, pest management, and value-added processing.
- Field Tours – Visits to model farms, research stations, and FreshCrop hubsites, offering real-world insight into Kenyan potato farming.
- Exhibitions – Showcases of equipment manufacturers, seed suppliers, and technology start-ups presenting the latest in irrigation, sorting, and storage.
A Milestone for Sub-Saharan Africa
Kenya’s hosting marks the first time a Sub-Saharan African country will welcome the World Potato Congress. This milestone reflects decades of investment in research and policy, as well as the resilience of smallholder farmers. More than a meeting of scientists and traders, the Congress will celebrate farmers’ ingenuity, spotlight women-led cooperatives, and forge links between global buyers and local producers.
Looking Ahead
Registration details, venue confirmations, and exact dates will be announced by August 2025. Early-bird rates, sponsorship packages, and partnership opportunities will follow soon after. For now, Kenya’s potato community is readying to roll out the red carpet, complete with crispy fries, fluffy mash, and endless cups of chai, offering a warm welcome to the world.
Join us in Nairobi in 2026 to cultivate ideas, harvest collaborations, and plant the seeds for a more food-secure future. Whether you are a researcher, a trader, a processor, or a passionate farmer, the 13th World Potato Congress promises inspiration, innovation, and lasting impact.
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