The World Potato Congress has announced that Nairobi, Kenya has been chosen as the site for its 2026 World Potato Congress. The proposed theme is “Developing Global Potato Partnerships for Enhanced Food Systems, Food Security and International Trade.” 

This is the first time for this biennial event to be held in sub-Sahara Africa. The three-day event in late July is expected to attract more than a thousand delegates.

Potatoes are the second most important food crop, after maize, in Kenya and plays an important role in food security, poverty eradication and economic development. Yet Africa faces a great challenge with food security as population growth continues at a fast pace. The potato crop has substantial room for improved yields, better utilization and increased incomes along the whole value chain.

Plans are in place for a pre-conference golf tournament and networking reception. Post-conference activities will include technical tours to large seed and potato growing operations, researchers, packers and processors as well as an opportunity for delegates to visit one of Kenya’s many national parks.

“I am excited that Kenya will host the 13th World Potato Congress in 2026,” says Dr. Peter VanderZaag, president of the World Potato Congress Inc. “Kenya is centrally located and a leader in both potato research and development in East Africa. I am confident that this congress will increase the profile and capacity for the potato value chain in this region as well as provide an opportunity for networking, investment and trade relationships across the entire potato sector.”

Source:  World Potato Congress May 22, 2023 news release