World Potato Congress 2026 Kenya to Bring Together Global Potato Leaders, Researchers, and Farmers in Naivasha

With less than six months remaining before the 13th World Potato Congress (WPC 2026), preparations are accelerating for what promises to be a major international gathering in Naivasha, Kenya this October. Organizers are rolling out new announcements, speaker highlights, and participation opportunities as anticipation builds across the global agriculture community.

Important Deadlines Approaching

Participants and researchers are encouraged to take note of key upcoming dates:

• Deadline 20th May Submit Abstract here
• Early Deadline: 1st July Register here

The congress is expected to bring together over 1,000 international delegates alongside 1,500+ local farmers, creating a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and innovation in the potato sector.

Featured Speakers Announced

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

Sponsorship & Travel Support Opportunities

Through the Declaration of Dublin initiative, more than 20 delegates will receive financial assistance to attend the congress. Support includes:

• Full registration fees 
• Accommodation in Naivasha 
• Travel grants (up to CAD $500–$1000, depending on region)

This initiative is funded by major industry partners such as:

• McCain Foods 
• J.R. Simplot Company 
• Syngenta 
• Potatoes USA 
• PepsiCo

Applications for bursary support are now open, offering valuable access to participants from diverse regions.

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.

Official Information Reminder

Organizers have advised attendees to rely only on official communication channels. The event is managed by Keynote PCO, the designated professional conference organizer, and participants should avoid unauthorized third-party agents.

Looking Ahead

As Kenya prepares to host this prestigious global event, WPC 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark congress—blending science, business, culture, and collaboration. From high-level discussions to authentic culinary experiences, attendees can expect a truly immersive and impactful gathering this October.