Vietnam proposes establishing eucalyptus and cassava raw material areas in Angola.

The project to support the development of sustainable agricultural and forestry production in Angola not only promotes sustainable development but also contributes to ensuring national food security.

On December 11th (Vietnam time), a delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment met and worked with Mr. Isaac Maria dos Anjos, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry of Angola, to promote agricultural cooperation between the two countries.

During the meeting, both sides emphasized the importance of food security in the context of global fluctuations, and affirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination in the sustainable development of timber and cassava raw material areas. In addition, rice was identified as a priority area, opening up opportunities for Vietnam to share experience, technology, and effective production models, aiming to support Angola in enhancing its self-reliance and ensuring a long-term food supply.

Mr. Pham Ngoc Mau, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Department and Head of the working group, reported on the results of the meeting with the Minister and proposed the procedures for implementing the preparatory steps for the project "Supporting the development of sustainable agricultural and forestry production in Angola" (within the framework of the South-South Cooperation Framework).

The Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Environment delegation presents gifts to the Angolan Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Photo: ICD .

Accordingly, the project is developed into five main components: Component 1 focuses on technology and the development of strategic raw material areas, especially eucalyptus wood and cassava. The project will select and transfer high-quality varieties, build sustainable forest management processes, develop tissue culture laboratories, high-tech nurseries, and cassava raw material areas along the value chain. Solutions regarding specialized fertilizers, integrated livelihood models, and soil nutrient surveys are integrated to optimize cultivation and reduce reliance on chemicals.

Component 2 focuses on agricultural extension, production organization, and technology transfer, aiming to establish a systematic production support system from the central to the grassroots level. The project will strengthen the agricultural extension network, build a digital platform, develop models linking farmers, cooperatives, and businesses, and operate demonstration centers for technology transfer such as circular agriculture and water-saving irrigation. Hands-on training programs, the compilation of standardized materials in Portuguese, and the development of a multimedia communication strategy will help standardize production processes.

Component 3 aims at long-term training and capacity building through on-the-job training for all stakeholders in the value chain, offering short-term certificate courses, organizing study programs in Vietnam, and supporting Master's and PhD scholarships to develop a team of local sustainable agriculture experts.

Component 4 focuses on improving institutions and policies, supporting Angola in assessing its legal system, developing national standards and regulations, implementing GAP certification and traceability mechanisms, and advising on a legal framework for managing sustainable raw material areas and forestry. Finally, Component 5 establishes an effective project management mechanism at the ministerial level and in Angola, based on the principle of South-South cooperation, emphasizing experience sharing, respect for sovereignty , and building self-reliance to ensure long-term sustainability.

The Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Environment delegation poses for a commemorative photo with the Angolan Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Photo: ICD .

Listening to the proposals from the Vietnamese side, Minister Isaac Maria dos Anjos expressed his agreement and appreciation for the cooperation orientation. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry stated that it would soon send a letter requesting the Vietnamese side to cooperate in preparing the project. Based on Angola's request, the South-South Working Group will report to the leaders of the Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Environment for consideration and approval of the policy. Following this, the Group will send a technical working group to survey and develop a feasibility study for submission to both Ministries for approval. Based on this document, an Agreement on the implementation of the project will be signed between the two Ministries.

In addition, Minister Isaac Maria dos Anjos proposed holding another meeting during the Vietnamese delegation's visit so that both sides could sign the Minutes of the Meeting and the draft project proposal. He also instructed Angolan authorities to expedite the preparatory steps. At the meeting, the Vietnamese side also expressed their desire to welcome the Minister to visit Vietnam as soon as possible.

Angolan leaders emphasized that developing eucalyptus and cassava plantations not only helps to effectively utilize unused land but also creates momentum for green growth, expands sustainable livelihoods for local communities, and gradually reduces dependence on oil. According to the Minister, these efforts will contribute to the more sustainable development of Angola's agriculture and forestry sector, support the diversification of the economy, strengthen national food security, and deepen bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

The Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Environment delegation worked with a more decisive, thorough, and effective approach. In response, Minister Isaac Maria dos Anjos demonstrated a strong commitment, creating momentum to promote cooperation between the two countries. Angola continues to affirm its role as a key partner in expanding Vietnam's South-South cooperation in Africa. The overall spirit of the working sessions was geared towards clear, substantive steps for more feasible cooperation implementation.

Source: https://nongnghiepmoitruong.vn/viet-nam-de-xuat-xay-dung-vung-nguyen-lieu-bach-dan-va-san-tai-angola-d788834.html