With great excitement, the World Potato Congress Inc. (WPC) has announced that the 13th World Potato Congress will take place in Kenya in October–November 2026. This decision follows an agreement between the Polish Potato Federation and WPC to cancel the previously scheduled event in Gdansk, Poland, in June 2026.
Kenya was initially awarded the right to host the Congress, but in May 2024, WPC had to postpone this decision to give the country time to strengthen its contractual and organizational frameworks. However, thanks to decisive action and high-level preparation, Kenya has once again earned the trust and the opportunity to host one of the most important events in the global potato sector.
WPC President Peter VanderZaag noted:
“Organizing the World Potato Congress requires a thoughtful approach. The Kenyan host committee responded swiftly and professionally to key challenges, making it possible for the event to be held in the country. We are confident this will be a global success.”
The 2026 Congress will be held under the theme:
“Developing Global Potato Partnerships for Enhanced Food Systems, Food Security, and International Trade.”
The key organizers of the Congress will include:
- National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK) – representing the potato industry
- FreshCrop Ltd. – representing the private sector with technical and organizational support
- International Potato Center (CIP) – serving as the scientific partner
Wachira Kaguongo, CEO of NPCK and WPC International Advisor, stated:
“With the support of global and local potato stakeholders and corporate sponsors, we have been able to secure the resources necessary to host a world-class event.”
FreshCrop Ltd., led by Founder and Managing Director Chris Gasperi, has long been involved with WPC. The company supports 15,000 smallholder farmers across Kenya through a hub-site model, offering access to certified seeds, agrochemicals, mechanization, financing, and markets. In 2023, FreshCrop received the National Presidential Farmers Award. Their annual Farmers Field Day draws thousands of participants and dozens of companies—a unique event they plan to replicate during the post-Congress tours in 2026.
The International Potato Center (CIP) plays a key role in supporting potato farming across Africa through research and innovation.
“This Congress is not only an opportunity to showcase science-based solutions, but also a platform to strengthen collaboration with industry leaders,” said Dr. Joyce Maru, CIP Regional Director for Africa.
The event is tentatively scheduled between late October and mid-November 2026. This timing avoids the peak tourism season in Kenya and major planting or harvesting periods in North America and Europe, making it more accessible to international participants.
The Congress will be organized by Keynote PCO, the professional conference organizers behind the successful 2022 event in Dublin. Details such as the venue, registration, and sponsorship opportunities will be announced by August 2025.
Kenya will be the first Sub-Saharan African country to host the World Potato Congress — a historic milestone for the global potato community.
What to Expect at the 2026 World Potato Congress:
- More than 1,000 delegates from around the world
- Thematic pre-conference workshops, exhibitions, and plenary sessions
- Post-Congress tours to farms and potato processing facilities
- A strong focus on sustainable agriculture, food security, and innovation in the potato value chain
As a leader in potato research and production in East Africa, Kenya offers not only technical excellence but also warm hospitality and cultural richness, ensuring a memorable and impactful experience for all delegates.
