The MOU will enhance access to quality education for the
people of Siaya County. It will also provide for joint educational and research
activities, exchange of students and scholars, and increased funding
opportunities for the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) from
agencies such as USAID, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and other global
organizations.
Siaya County is located in the southwest part of Kenya and has a population of more than 840,000. It is one of 47 counties in the nation. Under the Constitution of Kenya, county governments oversee county health services, trade development, pre-primary education, implementation of specific national government policies, and public work and services.
David praised CAFS Dean Robert Taylor and his staff for
forging the agreement that will put FAMU at the forefront of U.S. land-grant
institutions in terms of fostering collaborative ventures with African nations.
“Dean Taylor is to be commended for his steadfast efforts to
bring us to the point where we can sign this MOU that will lay the groundwork
for immense opportunities between FAMU and Siaya County,” said David. “The
agreement is a critical piece of President Elmira Mangum’s vision to have FAMU
become a best-in-class, land-grant doctoral research university with an
international presence, and to provide opportunities for our students to obtain
a global education that is vital for success in the 21st century global
economy.”
The MOU also supports President Barack Obama’s initiative to
improve food security in Siaya County. Obama’s grandmother is currently an
ambassador of food security in Siaya County.