The World Potato Congress has launched a youth engagement program in Kenya that will provide 40 young participants with practical training in potato production ahead of the 13th World Potato Congress in Naivasha this October.

The WPC 2026 Youth Engagement & 4K Club Program, branded “Growing the Future”, brings together 4K Club members from Nairobi and Nakuru counties. Ten participating schools in Nakuru County are taking part in demonstration plots and capacity-building activities with agricultural specialists.

Training covers land preparation, certified seed production, soil health management, integrated pest control, agricultural record-keeping and Good Agricultural Practices.

“In late July, participants gathered at FreshCrop Farm to learn about potato production and kick off the planting process,” said Ashley Gasperi of FreshCrop, who is leading the initiative.

Selected participants will also attend the World Potato Congress, including its exhibition and Youth & Women Session, while all 40 participants are scheduled to take part in the WPC 2026 Farmers Field Day at FreshCrop on October 29.

The initiative also includes five competition categories covering nutrition promotion, potato dishes, artwork, demonstration plots and agricultural record-keeping. Each participant will plant a commemorative tree as part of the program.

WPC said the initiative is intended to extend beyond this year’s congress, with participants potentially eligible for selection as WPC Youth Ambassadors for the 14th World Potato Congress in Belgium in 2028, subject to sponsorship and a competitive selection process.

“During our recent visit to Kenya, we were excited to learn about the 4K program and brainstormed how we might engage youth in learning how to grow potatoes and other crops,” said WPC Inc. Executive Director Ellen Kouwenberg. “This initiative is a first step and will aid in alleviating hunger and provide a source of income for families and communities. We hope to leave an ongoing legacy in Kenya and continue with this program at future World Potato Congress events.”

Kenya’s 4K program is a school-based agricultural initiative focused on practical agricultural skills and community service. WPC described the program as similar in concept to 4-H youth programs operating in other parts of the world.

The 13th World Potato Congress will take place in Naivasha, Kenya, from October 26 to 30, 2026.