The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) in partnership with MACFRUT, a renown Italian fruit and vegetable exhibition platform signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening agricultural trade between Kenya and Italy.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at a Nairobi hotel, the Italian Ambassador to Kenya Roberto Natali, noted that the collaboration fruitful talks that have been going on for over a year will boost business in Kenya and consequently grow the country’s revenue income since agriculture is a key sector for Kenya.
“With a youthful population, development in the agriculture area is essential. Italy will bring expertise in value addition, and through knowledge-sharing, of which both countries can benefit,” remarked Amb. Natali.
The partnership is expected to boost Kenya’s agricultural exports while ensuring high-quality standards that meet Italy’s market demands.
The event brought together representatives from both organizations and other stakeholders in the agricultural field.
The event that was attended by the President of MACFRUT, Renzo Piraccini, stakeholders in the agricultural field and Kenyan agricultural exporters expressed interest to explore new market opportunities in Italy.
In his remarks, the Director General of Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA), Dr. Bruno Linyiru, emphasized Kenya’s commitment to increase its agricultural exports to Italy, which currently account for only 2 percent of its total exports to Europe.
He also underscored the need to enhance product quality, particularly in high-demand crops such as avocados.
“We can do more, especially with the vast variety of avocado. This partnership will help us improve quality and expand our export range,” Linyiru said.
Speaking at the event, the MACFRUT President Renzo Piraccini highlighted the long-standing collaboration with Kenyan exporters, stressing that their platform goes beyond exhibitions and will provide year-round support to exhibitors.
MACFRUT is not just a business opportunity, it is a chance for networking and knowledge exchange,” stated Piraccini.
During the event, Kenyan exporters and farmers were encouraged to interact with Italian importers to enable them foster direct trade connections.
Plans are already underway for Kenya’s participation in MACFRUT upcoming exhibition in May this year.
By Vanessa Muhati and Jesee Otieno