The Brazilian Embassy in Kenya, in collaboration with the University of Nairobi’s Faculty of Agriculture, organized an insightful seminar focusing on agricultural technologies and technology transfer on 28th Feb 2025. The event, held at the university’s Faculty of Agriculture, highlighted innovative solutions to address water scarcity in arid regions, with a particular emphasis on rainwater harvesting techniques.
The seminar was led by Deputy Head of Mission Adriana Telles Ribeiro, who shared Brazil’s successful experience in using cisterns to harvest rainwater in its arid regions. She explained how this simple yet effective technology has transformed agricultural practices and improved water access for communities in drought-prone areas of Brazil. Ribeiro emphasized the potential for Kenya to adopt similar strategies to combat water scarcity and enhance agricultural productivity.
During her lecture, Ribeiro revealed that the Brazilian Embassy has already implemented four pilot cistern projects in Kenya, located in Athi River, Kitui, Tharaka Nithi, and Embu. These projects aim to demonstrate the viability of rainwater harvesting systems and their potential to provide sustainable water solutions for farming and domestic use in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions.
The event was hosted by Professor Catherine Kunyanga, the Associate Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture. Professor Kunyanga expressed her gratitude to the Brazilian Embassy for sharing their expertise and fostering collaboration between the two nations. She highlighted the importance of technology transfer in addressing Kenya’s agricultural challenges, particularly in the face of climate change and recurring droughts. Professor Kunyanga also invited the Brazilian Embassy to organize similar seminars in other educational institutions especially TVETs.
The seminar attracted a diverse audience, including students, researchers, agricultural experts, and policymakers, all eager to learn about innovative solutions to water scarcity and agricultural technology transfer. Participants engaged in lively discussions on how Kenya can adapt and scale up rainwater harvesting technologies to benefit its agricultural sector and rural communities.
The collaboration between the Brazilian Embassy and the University of Nairobi underscores the importance of international partnerships in driving sustainable development. By sharing knowledge and best practices, both nations are taking significant steps toward achieving food security and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
