UAE And Brazil Join Forces To Train Agricultural Professionals In Angola And Guinea-Bissau

The United Arab Emirates and the Brazil Africa Institute (IBRAF) are collaborating to boost technical skills among young Africans. The Youth Technical Training Programme (YTTP) will train 50 professionals from Angola and Guinea-Bissau in cocoa and cashew industries. This initiative involves four countries across Asia, Africa, and South America, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals 2, 4, and 8.

Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, stated, "This partnership exemplifies the UAE's commitment to fostering sustainable development and empowering communities through knowledge and skills transfer. By investing in education and capacity-building in critical industries like agriculture, we are contributing to the long-term economic growth and resilience of African nations. Collaborative initiatives like this not only strengthen international ties but also play a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as food security and economic inequality, paving the way for a more prosperous future for all."

The programme is economically significant for two reasons. Cashew exports make up over 90% of Guinea-Bissau's economy. Meanwhile, cocoa is the most valuable commodity of 2024. African countries, especially along the West African coast like Angola, lead global production. This presents a huge opportunity to influence international markets.

Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State, emphasised that this initiative is part of the UAE's efforts to help African countries reach their full potential. "The UAE has adopted a dynamic approach in Africa, focusing on international development, humanitarian assistance, and investment, with a strong commitment to addressing challenges such as food security, climate action, economic development and healthcare improvement. This initiative underscores the potential of international collaboration in driving positive change and fostering a more interconnected and prosperous future for the continent," H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan said.

Participants from Guinea-Bissau will receive hands-on training at Embrapa Tropical Agroindustry in Fortaleza. Angolan participants will attend sessions at the Mixed Cocoa Research and Innovation Unit (UMIPI) in Ilhéus. The second phase will occur at key institutions in the UAE. The UAE contributes by preparing curricula, providing training experts, and offering financial support.

Mauro Vieira, Brazil's Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted IBRAF's role in strengthening ties between Brazil and Africa through capacity-building programmes. "I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the Brazil Africa Institute, which...has been fostering a technical training ecosystem through various programmes dedicated to the capacity-building of young African professionals," said Vieira.

Long-Term Agricultural Goals

Teté António from Angola emphasised how this programme aligns with Angola's agricultural goals. "This project aligns with the Angolan government's strategy for food security and sovereignty...The collaboration with Brazil and the United Arab Emirates strengthens Angola's capacity to modernise its agricultural sector," he noted.

M'bala Fernandes from Guinea-Bissau stressed cashew's importance: "Cashew is not just an agricultural product for Guinea-Bissau - it is a pillar of our economy...Strengthening this sector requires investment in local production." The UAE’s involvement enhances Guinea-Bissau’s cashew production competitiveness globally.

Commitment to Capacity Building

Professor João Bosco Monte from IBRAF explained that YTTP uses tailored strategies for professional development specific to African needs. "The YTTP employs a range of tailored professional development strategies that address the specific needs of African nations...This initiative represents a commitment to sustainable development through capacity-building," he said.

The YTTP was first introduced at the 2024 African Union Summit in Addis Ababa. It aims to train 1,000 young Africans by 2025. This effort empowers future agricultural professionals to drive economic growth within their countries.

With inputs from WAM