IITA partners with various African governments and the private sector to transform African agriculture, alleviate poverty, increase food security, and improve livelihoods. Over the years, IITA has developed new technologies and programs that draw the Institute closer to its goal. This activity has increased the interest of governments of various African countries to partner with IITA in improving their country’s economy through agriculture and agribusiness.
H.E. Felix Tshisekedi, the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is interested in partnering with IITA. He has decided to work with IITA and the African Development Bank (AfDB) to transform agriculture in Congo from subsistence to commercial. Hence, the President sent delegates to see IITA’s technologies and ongoing programs and observe areas where the government can fully work with IITA on the new project.
Mr Pacifique Kahasha Birindwa, an adviser to the DRC President, and his Assistant Mr Felix Karume Ntwali visited IITA Headquarters from 9 to 15 January. Following discussions with Dr Nteranya Sanginga, IITA Director General, and the management team about a partnership in upscaling agriculture in Congo, they visited various laboratories to see available technologies.