On Thursday, October 29, 2026, Senegal's Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock, Cheikh Oumar Ba, paid a visit to Tunisia's National Agricultural Research Institute (INAR). The visit aimed to familiarize the minister with the latest developments in agricultural scientific research and explore programs and activities in the field of research and innovation. This visit is part of efforts to strengthen Tunisian-Senegalese cooperation in agricultural scientific research and innovation.
During the visit, Minister Ba was briefed on the institute's research programs and performance indicators. The Director-General of INAR presented an overview of the research programs carried out and highlighted the institute's focus on valorizing research results and transferring technology. This is achieved by strengthening links with professional structures and various stakeholders in the agricultural sector, with the goal of transforming research outputs and scientific experiments into innovative solutions and technologies applicable in the field.
The visit provided an opportunity for Minister Ba to learn about the institute's research experiences and scientific expertise. The two countries explored ways to benefit mutually from Tunisian and Senegalese experiences in the agricultural field, which could open up new avenues for cooperation between agricultural research institutions in both countries. They also discussed developing joint programs for exchanging expertise, knowledge, and agricultural technologies.
The INAR plays a pivotal role in supporting Tunisia's national agricultural system by conducting applied research and developing innovative solutions to address challenges in the agricultural sector. These challenges include improving productivity, conserving natural resources, adapting to climate change, and enhancing food sovereignty. The institute's work is crucial in addressing these issues and contributing to the development of the agricultural sector in Tunisia.
Minister Ba expressed his interest in the leading role of INAR in agricultural scientific research, innovation, and knowledge transfer to stakeholders through multiple partnerships at the national and international levels. He also expressed his aspiration to establish a scientific partnership between INAR and its Senegalese counterpart, the Senegalese Institute of Agricultural Research. This partnership would foster collaboration and exchange of expertise between the two institutions.
The visit by Minister Ba is a significant step towards strengthening cooperation between Tunisia and Senegal in the agricultural sector. It demonstrates the commitment of both countries to enhancing their collaboration in agricultural research and innovation, which is essential for addressing common challenges and promoting sustainable agricultural development in the region.
The meeting between Minister Ba and the INAR officials highlighted the importance of South-South cooperation in agricultural research and innovation. Both countries recognize the value of sharing experiences and expertise in addressing common challenges in the agricultural sector. The visit has paved the way for future collaborations and partnerships between Tunisia and Senegal in the field of agricultural research and innovation.
Key points
- The visit aims to strengthen Tunisian-Senegalese cooperation in agricultural scientific research and innovation.
- The INAR plays a crucial role in supporting Tunisia's national agricultural system through applied research and innovative solutions.
- The visit has opened up new avenues for cooperation between agricultural research institutions in Tunisia and Senegal.
