GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — Grand Island served as a center for global collaboration on Thursday as 40 delegates from several African nations toured local agricultural and manufacturing facilities. The visit was part of the International Agribusiness and Manufacturing Fair, an event aimed at building partnerships in innovation, trade, and food security.
The delegation, organized by the Midlands African Chamber in partnership with the International Agribusiness Initiative, visited companies including Chief Fabrication and Case New Holland to learn about advanced technologies and efficient production methods used across Nebraska’s agricultural sector.
According to John Ouedraogo, president of the organizing committee, the tour was focused on helping African nations modernize their agricultural systems.
“The most important part is learning about the technology used here in Grand Island and seeing the agricultural potential,” Ouedraogo said. “Many African countries want to modernize their agriculture, so they want to see the equipment and technology that make that possible.”
Local leaders said the exchange of ideas was mutually beneficial. Grand Island City Council President Jack Sheard emphasized that the partnerships forged through the fair could open doors for innovation and growth on both sides.
“Having people from across the world visit Grand Island to explore partnerships is exciting,” Sheard said. “It’s about discovering ways our businesses and communities can benefit together.”
One of the local participants, Fouad Mhadgiissa, owner of Koponi Vanilla, said Nebraska’s family-oriented values resonated with many of the visiting delegates.
“The way Nebraskans live—family-driven and community-minded—that’s the same way we live in Africa,” Mhadgiissa said.
The two-day fair, held October 29th and 30th, brought together leaders from Africa and the Midwest to foster collaboration in crop production, livestock development, agricultural technology, and climate-resilient food systems—further positioning Nebraska as a leader in global agricultural innovation.
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