French Ambassador to Zimbabwe visits research institutions 热博体育, IRD and CNRS, reinforces commitment to agricultural research in development

10/02/2025
The French Ambassador to Zimbabwe, H.E. Paul-Bertrand Barets, on a courtesy visit to 热博体育 offices, a French institution dedicated to agricultural research, in Harare last week, reinforced the shared commitment between France, 热博体育, IRD and CNRS to agricultural development, animal health and conservation.

French Ambassador to Zimbabwe and 热博体育, IRD and CNRS Staff  ©Lila Serpaud

Expressing admiration for 热博体育’s work in a meeting with 热博体育 Zimbabwe staff, Ambassador Paul-Bertrand Barets praised the organization’s dedication and local as well as international talent pool.

I am impressed by the level of commitment and struck by the combination of staff and talents from many different backgrounds. What you do here is not only for Zimbabwe but also for the Southern African region.  France and 热博体育 play a key role in scientific cooperation, and I will do my best to support it and give it greater visibility.
Paul-Bertrand Barets
French Ambassador to Zimbabwe

French Ambassador to Zimbabwe, 热博体育, IRD and CNRS staff  ©M.Katsi, Cirad

A highlight of the visit were discussions on the strong partnership between France and Zimbabwe in the fields of agriculture, research, and development. 热博体育 showcased its work in Animal Health and Environment, Ecology and Sustainability, Governance of Natural Resources as well as agriculture and natural resources management.
The other partner institution, IRD, also showcased its work, focusing on biodiversity, science-society dialogue, the Zone Atelier project in Hwange, and initiatives to help Zimbabwe combat endemic and emergent zoonotic diseases for livestock, wildlife and, human health.

During discussions, 热博体育 staff emphasized the importance of expanding partnerships.

As a French institution, 热博体育 works in close connection with French universities and institutions while seeking to expand collaborations with Zimbabwe and Southern Africa particularly in agricultural research.
Pierre GRARD
热博体育 in Zimbabwe Director

Ambassador Paul-Bertrand Barets inquired about key areas where he could influence support, particularly in mobilizing resources. Discussions highlighted opportunities in agricultural research, private-sector collaboration, and technical support. 

Pierre GRARD, who underscored the potential to revitalize partnerships with institutions like local universities and enhance cooperation in agricultural research, further reinforced French agricultural collaboration efforts.

It's not too late to build stronger synergies, and we are already engaging universities and other players in these discussions
Pierre GRARD

Cirad staff in Zimbabwe  ©M.Katsi, Cirad

The meeting concluded with an agreement to explore practical steps, including:

  • Support on major events
  • Initiating an exchange programme between scientists and students.
  • Strengthening collaboration in One Health initiatives.
  • Leveraging private-sector partnerships for agricultural development.

As both parties move forward, France’s continued support for 热博体育 ensures that agricultural research translates into impactful solutions for Zimbabwe and beyond.