Kenya and Australia are exploring new areas of cooperation in agricultural research, livestock technology and youth skills development in efforts to boost productivity, innovation and competitiveness in the agricultural sector.
The proposed partnership was discussed when Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Sen. Mutahi Kagwe received a delegation from the Australian Government led by Acting High Commissioner Andrew Barnes.
The discussions focused on strengthening livestock and crop research through partnerships with leading Australian research institutions, technology transfer and adoption of international best practices.
The two countries also explored collaboration in vaccine development and sexed semen technology to improve livestock production. Kagwe highlighted existing partnerships with a British organisation that have facilitated the production of vaccines and sexed semen for export to 13 countries.
However, demand for the products continues to exceed production capacity, with Uganda alone having received 11 million vaccine doses.
The meeting further explored opportunities to utilise Agricultural Training Centres (ATCs) to equip young people with practical agricultural skills, building on existing UK-supported training and internship programmes.
The collaboration is expected to strengthen research, innovation and skills development while supporting the modernisation of Kenya’s agricultural sector and creating greater opportunities for youth participation in farming.
