The African Potato Association’s (APA) 13th Triennial Conference will be held in 2025, bringing together researchers, policymakers, private sector actors, and development partners working across the potato and sweet-potato value chains. Since its inception in 1987, the APA conference has grown into a respected platform for sharing scientific research, innovations, and strategies aimed at improving production, processing, and marketing of these important crops across the African continent.
Scheduled for May 25–30, 2025, the conference will take place in Kampala, Uganda. Hosted at the International Conference Center in Munyonyo, the event is expected to welcome participants from across Africa and beyond.
The 2025 edition is themed “Fostering Climate-Smart Cropping Systems for Sustainable Potato and Sweetpotato Value Chains,” reflecting the urgent need to align agricultural practices with environmental sustainability and resilience.
Why APA Conference is Important:
- Knowledge Exchange: Facilitates dissemination of cutting-edge research and best practices in potato and sweetpotato cultivation and utilization.
- Networking Opportunities: Connects scientists, industry professionals, and policymakers for collaboration and partnership building.
- Focus on Innovation: Highlights advancements in breeding, seed systems, pest and disease management, and post-harvest technologies.
- Policy Engagement: Encourages dialogue on strategic policies for sustainable development of root and tuber crops.
- Support for Food Security: Contributes to regional goals for improving nutrition, food security, and rural livelihoods.
As Africa continues to face challenges related to climate change, food security, and rural development, the APA Conference serves as a critical platform to align science, innovation, and policy with practical outcomes. Its triennial format ensures timely discussions on emerging trends and fosters continuity in regional cooperation and agricultural progress.
Uganda’s central location in the Great Lakes region, its strong agricultural base, and well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal host for this pan-African event. With over 80% of its population involved in agriculture, the country provides a relevant and practical context for discussions on sustainable farming and rural development.
The conference will not only showcase advancements in potato and sweet-potato production but also highlight their role in food security, economic development, and climate resilience.
