Kenya is set to make international history as the host of the 2026 World Potato Congress — the first time the event will be held in sub-Saharan Africa.
Announced by World Potato Congress Inc. in a recent press release, this groundbreaking decision follows a recent shift in plans after an agreement between the Polish Potato Federation (PPF) and WPC to cancel the originally scheduled event in Gdansk, Poland, in June 2026.
The announcement comes after the WPC Board of Directors reviewed a formal request from Kenya’s National Potato Council (NPCK) to reconsider their initial bid to host the global gathering.
“Initially, Kenya was awarded the 2026 Congress, and it’s very gratifying to see the country now stepping up to fulfill that promise,” says WPC President Peter VanderZaag. “Kenya’s proactive approach and commitment to developing a world-class event truly reflect their leadership in the global potato industry.”
Hosting the Congress in Kenya underscores the country’s rising prominence on the international agricultural stage.
Dr. Bruno Linyiru, Director General of Kenya’s Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), calls it a “historic milestone,” emphasizing Kenya’s strategic efforts through initiatives like the National Potato Policy of 2019 and the National Potato Strategy (2021-2025).
“This event will showcase Kenya’s growing leadership in agricultural innovation and food security,” he says. “Potatoes are more than just a staple crop here — they symbolize resilience, progress, and our commitment to inclusive growth.”
Organized by a consortium of local and international players, the 2026 Congress will bring together over 1,000 delegates — researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and farmers — from across the globe. The event’s core organizing team includes the NPCK, the Agriculture and Food Authority, FreshCrop Limited, and the International Potato Center (CIP).
Wachira Kaguongo, CEO of the NPCK and WPC International Advisor, highlights that “with the engagement of global and local partners, we’re prepared to host a truly memorable Congress that will cement Kenya’s place in the world potato community.”
Kenya’s potato sector is thriving, backed by years of government support and private sector innovation. FreshCrop Ltd., a key player in Kenya’s potato industry, has been involved in successful farmer outreach, hosting some of the largest agricultural field days in East Africa.
Founder Chris Gasperi says, “Our event in 2023 attracted over 8,000 farmers — and we’re excited to host a global audience for the 2026 Congress.”
The Congress, scheduled for late October to mid-November 2026, will feature keynote speakers, workshops on sustainable farming, innovations in food security, and tours of Kenyan potato farms and processing facilities. Held outside peak cropping seasons, the timing offers logistical advantages and visitors the chance to enjoy Kenya’s rich tourism offerings.
Kenya’s hosting of the 2026 World Potato Congress isn’t just about agriculture; it’s a celebration of the country’s growing influence and a platform to forge new global partnerships.
“This is a historic moment for Kenya and Africa — a chance to show the world what we’re capable of,” Kaguongo says. “We’re ready to grow ideas, plant partnerships, and harvest a better future.”
Stay tuned for updates on registration details, program highlights, and how you can be part of this inaugural event in Sub-Saharan Africa — marking a new chapter in the global potato industry.
