For the first time in its more than 30-year history, the World Potato Congress (WPC) will take place in Sub-Saharan Africa, marking a historic milestone for the global potato community. The 13th edition of the Congress is scheduled for October 26–30, 2026, at the Sawela Lodges & Convention Centre in Naivasha, Kenya, on the shores of Lake Naivasha in the Great Rift Valley.

The Congress is being co-hosted by the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK) and FreshCrop Limited, and was officially launched during a high-level visit by Dr. Peter VanderZaag, President of WPC Inc., in mid-July. During the visit, Dr. VanderZaag praised the organizing committee’s professionalism and confirmed Kenya’s readiness to deliver a world-class international event for the potato sector.

Under the theme “Global Potato Partnership for Enhanced Food Systems, Nutrition Security and Trade”, the Congress is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates from more than 60 countries. Participants will include senior figures from agriculture, research, industry, policy, and development sectors.

The five-day programme will feature plenary sessions, technical talks, exhibitions, innovation showcases, and field tours. Post-congress activities will include cultural experiences and safari excursions. Key thematic areas will address global potato production and trade, variety development and seed systems, pest and disease management, post-harvest handling, climate-smart mechanization, big data applications, and inclusive business models for women, youth, and MSMEs.

Strategic partners supporting the event include the International Potato Center (CIP), Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Kenya’s Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), and private sector stakeholders such as Corteva Agriscience, Kevian Ltd., and Kaizen Top Mark.

The local planning committee is chaired by NPCK CEO Wachira Kaguongo, with FreshCrop CEO Chris Gasperi serving as Vice-Chair. Both emphasized the significance of bringing the Congress to Africa and Kenya’s commitment to delivering a high-impact global event.

As part of the official launch, Dr. VanderZaag and representatives from NPCK, FreshCrop, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, and other stakeholders conducted a site visit to the future Congress venue in Naivasha. The event was also covered by Kenyan media and received strong institutional support from both public and private sector players.

“With Dr. VanderZaag’s presence and the strength of our partnerships, we are ready to deliver an impactful and inclusive Congress,” said Chris Gasperi. Wachira Kaguongo added, “We are honored to co-host this prestigious Congress and look forward to welcoming the world to Kenya. It’s time for Africa to take its rightful place in global food discussions.”

Preparations are already well underway, with further details on registration, sponsorship, and programming expected later this year.