The Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Macfrut, a premier Italian fruits and vegetable exhibition organization, to strengthen horticultural cooperation between the two nations. The agreement, inked in Nairobi, aims to boost partnerships in the agribusiness sector and enhance market access for Kenyan agricultural products in Europe.
Under the MoU, a Joint Implementation Committee (JIC) will be established to oversee the collaboration. The six-member committee, equally represented by both parties, will be responsible for drafting annual action plans and submitting reports on agreed activities. This framework is expected to foster the development of Kenya’s fruit and vegetable industries while enhancing their competitiveness in European markets.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) chairman Cornelly Serem welcomed the partnership, stating, “We have received with gratitude your (Macfrut) offers and we promise on our end to produce the best fruits and vegetables that meet international standards.”
As part of the agreement, Macfrut will organize an annual exhibition in Kenya to showcase local produce and provide international exposure for Kenyan farmers and agribusiness players. In return, the AFA will mobilize key industry stakeholders in Kenya to participate in the Macfrut fair, held annually in Italy. This exchange is set to create new business opportunities and strengthen Kenya’s presence in European markets.
The deal is expected to offer significant benefits to Kenyan farmers and technicians in key areas such as cold chain management, fruit and vegetable farming, nuts and oil crop cultivation, and agro-processing. Additionally, the MoU outlines cooperation in new technologies, organic farming, bio solutions, irrigation systems, and fruit processing techniques.
Italy’s Ambassador to Kenya, Roberto Natali, lauded the agreement, emphasizing its potential impact on Kenya’s economy. “Agriculture is the backbone of Kenya’s economy, and this partnership with Macfrut comes at a perfect time, offering the country’s youth employment opportunities linked to the international market in Europe,” Natali stated.
The Italian Trade Agency (ITA), which facilitated the negotiations, described the signing as a “historic moment for farmers and professionals in Kenya.” ITA director Giuseppe Manenti further announced a mega three-day training session for Kenyan farming professionals scheduled between March 10 and March 14, 2025.
Present at the signing were Macfrut President Renzo Piraccini, AFA Director General Bruno Linyiru, and other dignitaries. This partnership marks a significant step toward transforming Kenya’s horticultural sector and expanding its global market footprint.
