The disruption comes as attacks on Ukrainian ports and maritime infrastructure have sharply limited Black Sea export capacity.
The initiative focuses on improving research capabilities in millets and other ancient grains, which are attracting growing attention for their potential to support food security, dietary diversity and agricultural resilience.
Kenya has positioned itself as East Africa’s leading supplier of raw barley, with exports estimated at 39,997 tonnes in 2025.
The launch is timed for National Pasta Month in October 2026 and targets the US market.
The leadership change comes as Bunge continues to operate across oilseed processing and refining markets.