Brazilian agricultural research company Embrapa, the Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC), and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) signed a letter of intent yesterday to finance African agricultural researchers’ visits to Brazil.
Representatives from all three institutions formalized the agreement on Wednesday to promote expert exchanges. They aim to strengthen technical cooperation between Brazil and 55 African countries, focusing on global food security networks.
The initiative will host at least 30 researchers from scientific institutes, universities, and government agencies. Participants will study three key areas: regenerative agriculture for natural resource preservation, food security for healthy food access, and rehabilitation of degraded lands.
“We want to go beyond sharing achievements and expand knowledge development in partnership with Global South countries,” said Embrapa President Silvia Massruhá during the signing ceremony.
The announcement took place at the Africa-Brazil Dialogue seminar on Research, Development and Innovation at Embrapa headquarters in Brasília. Nobel Peace Prize winner Rattan Lal attended the event and discussed agricultural challenges in Africa.
This seminar serves as groundwork for a May meeting that will bring African Agriculture Ministers to Brazil. President Lula previously mentioned plans to “transfer knowledge to our African counterparts and truly fight hunger.”
Brazil’s Agricultural Diplomacy
Africa holds nearly 65% of uncultivated arable land and about 10% of the planet’s renewable water resources. Yet, most African countries still import food for local populations.
“Approaching the African continent remains a priority for the Lula administration,” stated Luis Rua, Secretary of Trade and International Relations. He emphasized renewed engagement after years of limited contact.
In addition, ambassador Laudemar Gonçalves highlighted Brazil’s cooperation philosophy: “We don’t impose rules or obstacles. We ask nothing in return.”
IICA Director Manuel Otero noted that Brazil transformed regions like the Cerrado into highly productive areas through research and innovation. He believes these technologies can be adapted to African realities, supporting agricultural development across the continent.