DRC-FAO: Strengthening agri-food cooperation in Rome

Kinshasa, October 14^th, 2026 (CPA).- The strengthening of agri-food cooperation between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has been further consolidated this Wednesday in Rome (Italy), during a meeting between the Congolese Minister in charge of Higher Education and the General Director of this institution. “The strengthening of agri-food cooperation between DRC and the FAO at this international meeting demonstrates the importance DRC attaches to scientific and agronomic research, with particular attention being paid to the National Institute for Agronomic Studies and Research (INERA),” has declared Prof. Marie-Therese Sombo, Minister in charge of Higher and University Education. She has explained that this meeting, held on the side-lines of the World Food Forum, forms part of efforts to promote agricultural research, scientific innovation and food security. It highlights the strategic role of higher education and research institutions in the promotion of DRC’s agricultural potential, notably through the generation of scientific knowledge and the development of solutions tailored to the country’s food challenges. Minister Sombo has specified that DRC’s participation in this World Forum provides an opportunity to promote national research capabilities and explore new avenues for international collaboration for the benefit of the Congolese agricultural sector. According to her, this initiative aims in particular to showcase national scientific expertise and strengthen synergies between Congolese research institutions and international partners, with a view to contribute to the development of the agri-food sector and the improvement of food security in DRC.