São Paulo – Sudan is going to import genetic material from Brazilian zebu cattle. Apart from that, it will send technicians to Brazil for training in the breeding of these animals. The information was supplied by the Sudanese minister of Animal Resources and Fishery, Faisal Hassan Ibrahim, and were passed on to ANBA during the visit of a delegation from the African country to the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce headquarters, in São Paulo, this Wednesday (13th).
"We have been to two artificial insemination centres and to several farms, where we have seen the Brazilian zebu cattle, especially the Nelore variety. They perform a great work in breeding improvement," said Ibrahim upon announcing partnerships with Brazilian organizations.
"Our visit to the Brazilian Zebu Cattle Breeders Association was very interesting. We have committed to improving our bilateral relations with the association so as to improve zebu cattle in Sudan," he explained. According to the minister, Sudanese technicians will come to Brazil to undergo training in breeding, artificial insemination and embryo transfers. Brazilian professionals will also go to the Arab country to provide training to the Sudanese.
Last week, Ibrahim had already signed a protocol of intentions with the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply, in Brasília, as reported by ANBA. According to the minister, the protocol provides for cooperation in the fields of technology transfer and training.
Another organization visited by the delegation of businessmen headed by the minister was the Beef Cattle unit of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa). "We invited [Embrapa] to visit Sudan and sign a protocol for cooperation. We want partnerships in breeding, genetics, nutrition and all aspects of breeding improvement," said Ibrahim. Also regarding livestock, the minister informed that an export agreement has been signed with a Brazilian grazing seeds company.
The minister also claimed to have visited fishing and aquaculture farms. "We were impressed with the technology we have seen. The technology Brazilians are using to farm Tilapia fish is very simple and extremely effective," he said. "Right now a meeting is underway between one of the Sudanese investors and a Brazilian company, to establish a joint venture for aquaculture in Sudan, in order to breed over 1 million Tilapia," he stated.
The delegation also visited agricultural machinery and irrigation companies. Ibrahim highlighted the importance of his visit to the Arab Brazilian Chamber, where the delegation was welcomed by secretary general Michel Alaby. "I believe the Chamber will be the focal point of all the activities we are engaging in."
*Translated by Gabriel Pomerancblum
