The 13th World Potato Congress will be hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, in October/November 2026. Organized by World Potato Congress Inc., this premier global event will bring together key stakeholders from across the potato value chain.
With the theme “Developing Global Potato Partnerships for Enhanced Food Systems, Food Security and International Trade,” the Congress will highlight the pivotal role of potatoes in addressing food security, economic development, and poverty alleviation across Africa and beyond
The event is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates from around the world, including growers, processors, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange
The Congress program will feature plenary sessions, thematic workshops, and panel discussions focused on sustainable agriculture, food security, innovative practices, and strengthening the potato value chain. Attendees can also look forward to pre-conference networking events and post-congress technical tours, including visits to leading potato farms, research centers, and processing facilities. These activities will provide valuable insights into Kenya’s advancements in potato production and the broader potential for industry growth in the region
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World Potato Congress 2025 V6
Featured Speakers
Several prominent industry leaders and experts have been confirmed as speakers:
Jamey Higham
Jamey Higham
President and CEO of the Idaho Potato Commission, Higham brings extensive experience in agricultural marketing and policy. He will present on “Branding and Marketing,” drawing from his leadership in promoting Idaho’s globally recognized potato industry.
Hamadi Boga
Hamadi Boga
Currently Vice President of Programs Delivery at AGRA, Prof. Boga has nearly three decades of experience in agricultural policy and development. His session will focus on food security and the potato value chain in Africa.
Soundararadjane S.
Soundararadjane S.
CEO of HyFarm (part of HyFun Foods), he is a key figure in India’s rapidly growing potato processing sector. His talk, “The India Potato Story,” will highlight innovation, sustainability, and supply chain transformation.
Aska Goverse
Aska Goverse
Associate Professor at Wageningen University & Research, Dr. Goverse leads cutting-edge research on plant resistance to nematodes. She will present on “NEM-EMERGE: Research & Innovation Strategies and Pathways,” a project funded under the EU’s Horizon Europe initiative.
Kenyan Culture Takes Center Stage
A unique highlight of WPC 2026 will be Kenya’s rich culinary traditions, where potatoes play a central cultural role. Delegates will experience authentic local dishes, including:
- Waru – a staple potato dish deeply embedded in Central Kenyan traditions
- Mukimo – a nutritious mash combining potatoes, maize, beans, and pumpkin leaves
- Viazi Karai – a popular coastal street food featuring spiced, deep-fried potatoes served with tamarind sauce
These offerings will be featured across gala dinners and networking events, showcasing Kenya’s diverse food heritage.
Unique Kenyan Flavours
A Global Platform for Growth
WPC 2026 aims to provide a comprehensive forum for:
- Policymakers
- Researchers
- Agribusiness leaders
- Investors Farmers
Under the theme of “Showcase. Connect. Grow.”, the event will emphasize collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development across the potato value chain.
