This investment is part of the government's efforts to develop the country's agricultural sector and create income-generating activities in rural and urban areas.

The goal of the government and the FAO is to develop a family-based poultry industry that employs modern practices. The programmeme will provide training and resources for feeding and care of poultry stock, vaccination against diseases, and general veterinary care.

Miguel Oyono Ndong Mifumu, Agriculture Minister of Equatorial Guinea, and Athman Mravili, Malabo representative of the FAO, signed the agreement.

"The goal of this government programme is to develop the agricultural regions of the country. This agreement will have a positive impact in rural areas, by supporting the work of its people," said Miguel Ndong.

The agreement provides training in the provinces and extension and implementation of a system to deliver critical pharmaceuticals. Equatorial Guinea's President, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, announced on October 11 that his government had offered US$30 million to the FAO to assist African countries with food shortages and improve food security across the continent.