The 13th World Potato Congress is fast approaching, with Kenya set to host the long-awaited global event in Naivasha from 26–30 October 2026. For the first time, the Congress will be held in Sub-Saharan Africa, bringing together stakeholders from across the global potato industry under the theme “Global Potato Partnership for Enhanced Food Systems, Nutrition Security, and Trade.”
The Congress comes at an important time for Kenya’s potato sector. Potatoes are a key food and cash crop, supporting farmers, traders, processors and other businesses. However, challenges such as access to quality seed, climate variability, post-harvest losses and limited market opportunities continue to affect the industry. Discussions at WPC 2026 will provide an opportunity to examine these issues alongside experiences from other potato-producing countries.
The event will bring together researchers, farmers, policymakers, businesses and industry leaders to share knowledge and discuss developments in potato production, research, processing and trade. Exhibitions, technical tours and the Farmer Field Day will also give participants an opportunity to learn about technologies and practices used across the value chain.
For Kenya, hosting the Congress offers an opportunity to present its potato industry to an international audience and engage with stakeholders working in different production and market environments. It also places African potato producers and researchers in a position to share their experiences and contribute to discussions on the industry’s priorities.
The value of WPC 2026 will ultimately depend on how its discussions translate into action. Connections made during the Congress can support further research, business relationships and the exchange of practical knowledge. Ensuring that these engagements continue beyond the event will be important for the sector.
As Naivasha prepares to welcome delegates from around the world, Kenya has an opportunity to demonstrate what its potato industry has achieved, discuss the challenges that remain and learn from the experiences of others. The Congress should leave participants with ideas and relationships that continue to serve the potato industry long after October 2026.
Register or explore the interactive programme at wpc2026kenya.com.
