By Mary Mwende
The Late Poster Abstract Submission Portal for the 13th World Potato Congress (WPC 2026) has officially opened, providing researchers, innovators, students, industry professionals, and development practitioners with another opportunity to present their work at one of the world’s premier potato industry events.
The decision to reopen submissions follows the overwhelming response and strong interest received during the main abstract submission period earlier this year. The additional submission window is intended to accommodate individuals and institutions that were unable to meet the initial deadline, while broadening participation and enriching the scientific and technical discussions that will take place during the Congress.
Scheduled to be held in Naivasha, Kenya, the 13th World Potato Congress will convene global stakeholders from across the potato value chain under the theme: “Global Potato Partnership for Enhanced Food Systems, Nutrition Security and Trade.” The theme reflects the growing importance of potatoes in strengthening resilient food systems, improving nutrition, expanding market opportunities, and fostering international collaboration to address emerging agricultural challenges.
Poster presentations provide an important platform for sharing new research findings, technological innovations, policy experiences, case studies, and practical solutions that contribute to the advancement of the global potato sector. They also offer participants an opportunity to engage directly with fellow researchers, policymakers, development partners, private sector actors, and producers from around the world.
The late submission window is expected to attract a diverse range of contributions covering areas such as seed systems, production technologies, pest and disease management, climate resilience, mechanization, post-harvest management, value addition, marketing, nutrition, policy, trade, and other emerging issues shaping the future of the potato industry.
Successful poster abstracts will form part of the Congress’ scientific programme, enabling authors to showcase their work before an international audience while fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration across regions.
The deadline for submitting late poster abstracts is Friday, 7 August. Prospective authors are encouraged to review the submission guidelines and terms before preparing and submitting their abstracts.
The 13th World Potato Congress is expected to bring together researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, development organizations, farmer representatives, and other potato professionals from across the globe, reinforcing Kenya’s position as a key player in the international potato sector while promoting partnerships that support sustainable food systems, improved nutrition security, and increased trade opportunities.
