Kenya and Brazil have taken a significant step toward deepening bilateral relations through the creation of a Kenya–Brazil Parliamentary Friendship Group, aimed at strengthening parliamentary diplomacy and fostering cooperation in agriculture, food security, and economic development.
The initiative was announced following a high-level meeting between lawmakers from both countries, held on the sidelines of the 2nd Brazil–Africa Dialogue on Food Security, Hunger, and Rural Development in Brasília. The Kenyan delegation, led by Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula, engaged in extensive discussions with their Brazilian counterparts to align legislative collaboration with shared development goals.
“In the spirit of South–South cooperation, our parliaments must take the lead in shaping policies that respond to the urgent challenges of hunger and underdevelopment,” said Speaker Wetang’ula. He emphasized that the new alliance would enable both countries to exchange knowledge, strengthen legislative frameworks, and build resilient food systems.
Wetang’ula, accompanied by Nominated MP Hon. Sabina Chege and Nyaribari Chache MP Hon. Zaheer Jhanda, highlighted the role of parliamentary diplomacy in promoting agricultural innovation and rural transformation. One key outcome of the talks was Brazil’s pledge to support the unconditional transfer of agricultural technologies and innovations to African countries, starting with Kenya. This move aims to modernize farming, improve productivity, and empower smallholder farmers, the backbone of African agriculture.
In a gesture of continued cooperation, Wetang’ula extended an invitation to Brazilian legislators to visit Kenya later this year, encouraging further dialogue to define concrete areas of engagement. “Let us exchange visits and ideas,” he urged. “This partnership will help us move our people forward together.”
The broader impact of the talks was echoed in a separate meeting with Brazil’s Chambers of Commerce, where Chairperson Mr. Paul Pan expressed intent to bolster trade and investment ties. Economic diplomacy, including potential collaborations in agribusiness, infrastructure, and manufacturing, was identified as a key pillar of the evolving partnership.
Hugo Motta, representing the Speaker of Brazil’s Lower House, reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to fostering stronger trade and legislative links with Kenya, stressing the vital role of parliaments in creating conducive environments for investment.
Kenyan lawmakers underscored the value of people-centered diplomacy. Hon. Sabina Chege advocated for deeper engagement to bridge gaps in agricultural research and youth empowerment. Meanwhile, Hon. Zaheer Jhanda praised Brazil’s advancements in agricultural mechanization and value addition, expressing hope that Kenya could replicate such models to benefit its farmers.
The Kenya–Brazil Parliamentary Friendship Group is expected to facilitate joint initiatives, capacity-building programs, and harmonization of policy frameworks—marking a new chapter in South–South cooperation rooted in mutual respect and shared aspirations for sustainable development.
Written By Rodney Mbua
