When heritage meets innovation, great things spark!

Her Excellency Gisele Fernández, Ambassador of Mexico to Kenya, at the CIMMYT – Kenya Seed Health Lab (GMP) in Nairobi (3rd November 2025). CIMMYT Kenya Welcomes Her Excellency Gisele Fernández, Ambassador of Mexico to Kenya. It was a great honor to host Her Excellency Gisele Fernández,
Ambassador of Mexico to Kenya, at the CIMMYT Kenya offices in Nairobi.

During her visit, Her Excellency toured the Maize Lethal Necrosis (MLN) laboratory, where she gained
first-hand insights into CIMMYT’s cutting-edge research and innovations strengthening Africa’s
agrifood systems. The visit underscored the enduring partnership between Mexico and Kenya—a shared
vision for resilient, science-driven, and sustainable food systems.

Her Excellency remarked: “Maize is deeply rooted in Mexico’s identity—it’s not just food but part of
our culture and daily life. It’s inspiring to see how equally vital this crop is for millions of families across
Africa, and how CIMMYT’s work continues to link our shared heritage through science and innovation.”
Dr. Suresh L. M., CIMMYT’s Maize Pathologist for Sub-Saharan Africa, briefed the Ambassador
on safe germplasm exchange through CIMMYT’s stringent quarantine and phytosanitary systems—a
cornerstone of global maize research collaboration. Together, we celebrate the science that connects
continents—and the maize that nourishes us all.