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:
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.
