The model farm in Kenya, built with the financing of the Ministry of Agriculture, was handed over

(Photo: AM)

During the day, the minister also consulted with the ministers responsible for the blue economy and irrigation. Africa is a country of opportunities for our country in the field of agriculture, said Minister of Agriculture István Nagy, who discussed with Salim Mvurya, Kenyan Minister for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs. He explained that we used to think that the seas have an inexhaustible resource, but this is not the case, which is why more and more emphasis must be placed on the development of the aquaculture sector. There are three serious opportunities for our country in cooperation with Kenya. On the one hand, we are implementing a model farm project, on the other hand, fish farming can be further developed, and on the third hand, our relations can be deepened in the field of educational and scientific cooperation. István Nagy reminded that back in 2020, our country signed an agreement with Kenya on a tied aid loan program, within the framework of which Hungary, among others, supports the implementation of fish farming projects. We hope that these investments are only the first steps, which may be followed by further developments.

During the day, the head of the ministry also discussed water management issues with Zacharia Mwangi Njeru, Kenya’s Minister of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation

At the meeting, István Nagy highlighted that it is crucial for strengthening food security to implement as many investments as possible in irrigation development. In this regard, our country is ready to share its knowledge and experience with its African partners. As an example, the minister cited the VízÐr technology, already proven in the fight against drought, which helps soils to eliminate the negative effects of climate change, with less irrigation. The head of the ministry also drew attention to increasing efficiency, because it is necessary to be able to irrigate a larger area effectively with the same amount of water. In the field of knowledge transfer, Hungary also wants the agricultural relations of the two countries to reach a higher level with scholarship programs and scientific collaborations, he added.

(Photo: AM)

Together with the Kenyan minister responsible for agriculture and animal husbandry, the head of the ministry handed over the model farm, which was financed by the Ministry of Agriculture

István Nagy said at the event that the crises of recent years showed how important it is to have the skills to produce high-quality, safe and healthy food ourselves, in order to be less dependent on large food-producing countries and multinational trading companies. This project serves to realize these goals. As part of the investment, seed testing and cultivation technologies will be implemented in the Mwea settlement. The program includes, among other things, the cultivation of corn, sorghum, tomatoes and green peas. The expertise, the experience of excellent Hungarian agricultural professionals, as well as the world-class Hungarian seeds can help us increase the supply of healthy food to Kenyan families, the minister underlined.

AM