During the opening day of the highly anticipated National Potato Conference on May 30, 2023, an important milestone was reached as the World Potato Congress Planning Committee was officially commissioned. Representing the Principal Secretary (PS) Kello Harsama, Dr. Felister Makini, the Deputy Director of the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), presided over the inauguration ceremony.
The esteemed committee comprises key stakeholders from various organizations, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (MoALD), the National Potato Council of Kenya (NPCK), the International Potato Center (CIP), the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), Corteva Agriscience, the Syngenta Foundation, KALRO, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) of Nyandarua, the Agriculture Sector Network (ASNET), the Kenya Investment Authority (Keninvest), the CECM of Elgeyo Marakwet, Bayer Crop Science, the Council of Governors, Kevian Kenya Ltd, the Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF), the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration, and the State Department for Tourism and Wildlife.
The primary objective of the committee is to spearhead the planning, organization, and coordination of activities leading up to the highly anticipated World Potato Congress, scheduled to be held in Kenya in 2026. This prestigious event will provide a global platform to showcase Kenya’s advancements, innovations, and achievements in the potato industry.
With the involvement of such a diverse and influential group of stakeholders, the committee aims to ensure the seamless execution and resounding success of the World Potato Congress. The event is expected to attract international experts, researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and potato enthusiasts from around the world, providing a unique opportunity for knowledge sharing, networking, and forging partnerships to drive further growth and development in the potato sector.
The National Potato Conference served as a fitting backdrop for the inauguration of the planning committee, highlighting Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its position in the global potato market. As preparations for the 2026 World Potato Congress gain momentum, the committee members are set to collaborate closely to create a memorable and impactful event that will propel Kenya’s potato industry to new heights.
