Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Senator Mutahi Kagwe, paid a courtesy call on Zambia’s Minister of Agriculture, Reuben Mutolo, as the two countries explored new areas of collaboration to strengthen food systems and agricultural productivity.

During the meeting, both ministers discussed plans to establish institutional linkages between Kenya’s Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), and Zambia’s Seed Control and Certification Institute.

These efforts aim to enhance cooperation in seed research, certification, and exchange, particularly for yellow maize, sunflower, and napier grass.

Kenya has previously imported sunflower seeds from Zambia, and the two nations are looking to further diversify and secure access to climate-resilient and high-yield varieties through such collaborations.

Another key agenda item was vaccine production, where Kenya expressed readiness to export veterinary vaccines to Zambia as part of broader regional health and livestock management strategies.

Minister Mutolo proposed the convening of a regional meeting of Agriculture Ministers to advance a joint agenda on food independence and mutual support. CS Kagwe welcomed the proposal, noting it aligns with Kenya’s commitment to regional food security and resilience.

The Zambian minister also assured that his ministry would facilitate links with Zambia’s Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, paving the way for a broader bilateral cooperation framework.

Both countries are currently investing in agricultural development and increasing productivity to ensure sustainable food systems. CS Kagwe was commended for his proactive regional engagement aimed at fostering stronger ties and shared progress across Africa’s agricultural landscape.

A formal cooperation agreement between Kenya and Zambia is expected to be developed to consolidate these efforts, NTV Kenya reported.