France will continue partnering with Kenya, in exploring solutions that will make the two countries resilient in food supply even in unprecedented and challenging times.
The country’s envoy Arnaud Suquet, said it was important for the two countries to strive to achieve food security through agricultural practices and modern technologies that do not adversely affect the environment and the climate.
Mr. Suquet also disclosed plans by his government in partnership with the private sector to invest in the restoration of the Mau Forest Complex, creative spaces, agribusiness, culture and tourism, research, education, and the empowerment of Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in a move to strengthen ties between Nairobi and Paris.
He pledged that his country will continue marketing Kenya aggressively among the French people as a leading tour destination in Africa in order to attract a large number of French tourists to Kenya.
Speaking after holding a meeting with Nakuru Deputy Governor David Kones, the envoy said France was keen to partner with the County Government and explore ways of empowering farmers in the region on advancement of climate-smart technologies and best practices to improve productivity.
Mr Kones singled out climate change, widespread global desertification and water crises and the extinction of animal and plant species as external factors that were affecting agriculture.
The envoy said cooperation between France and the county government will facilitate skills and technology transfer that will boost local water technology, agriculture extension services and improve weather forecasting for farmers.
He also revealed intentions to strengthen and develop the African entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem through the Ambition Africa forum scheduled for November this year, an annual event fostering economic and commercial exchanges between France and Africa, and to promote Nakuru as a business destination.
Mr. Suquet pointed out that Kenya and France were also partnering in security, Information Technology, health, tourism and trade sectors.
The two further deliberated on water and sanitation, transport, green energy, urban mobility and agriculture.
Also in attendance were County Secretary Dr Samuel Mwaura, Chief of Staff Dr Peter Ketyenya, County Executive Committee Members Stephen Kuria (Trade), Roselyn Mungai (Health), Leonard Bor (Agriculture), Environment Chief Officer Kennedy Mungai, and Political Advisor Joseph Kibore.
Deputy Governor Mr Kones urged French businesspeople to invest in Nakuru saying that such investments can help boost the balance of trade, which currently tilts in favour of France
“It is our desire to see the volume of trade between our two countries grow even larger,” he stated
“Nakuru has numerous investment opportunities and as a country, we are open to investors,” Mr Kones said.
Kones informed the Ambassador that the county was keen to tap into France expertise in crop production, with innovation for dryland farming including transformational agrotech.
By Jane Ngugi
