Utilizing youth & technology to improve Rwanda's food security

Rwanda has been making significant strides in economic growth, yet the youth unemployment rate stands at 21.87 per cent. To address this challenge, the country has been focusing on leveraging the agricultural sector to create employment opportunities for young people. Dr. Birungi Koraturo, the Chief Executive Officer of Kilimo Trust, shed light on the Rural Youth Employment Support Programme, aimed at empowering rural youth with agribusiness skills and knowledge. This initiative, in partnership with organizations like IFAT, BNZ, and Visa Foundation, has already seen over two million US dollars invested to support youth in 16 districts across Rwanda. Through collaborations with public institutions and private companies, the programme has facilitated training for youth in technical skills and provided job placements in various agricultural businesses. As a result, approximately 1,500 youth have secured formal employment, while 370 startups have been established, creating about 2,500 jobs in Rwanda. The success of this initiative is not only beneficial for the country but also sets an example for addressing youth unemployment crises and food security challenges across Africa. Dr. Koraturo emphasized the importance of innovation in agriculture and how it can revolutionize the narrative for African countries. By harnessing innovative technologies and practices, the youth can tap into new opportunities in sectors like tractor maintenance, irrigation, and equipment innovation, thereby contributing to the transformation of the agricultural value chain. The upcoming forum organized by Kilimo Trust aims to share insights and best practices from Rwanda and other participating countries, fostering collaboration and scalability of similar youth-focused programmes. In a continent where the youth population is rapidly growing, innovation in agriculture becomes a crucial driver for sustainable development and addressing the pressing issue of youth unemployment. Dr. Koraturo highlighted that by embracing innovation, the youth can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of agriculture and driving economic growth in Africa.