AGRA’s on how youth can shape the future of African agriculture

In a dynamic and insightful interview on CNBC Africa, Lilian Githinji Kolobo, AGRA's Senior Specialist in Institutional Capacity Strengthening and Head of CALA, underscored the pivotal role of youth in shaping the future of agriculture in Africa. With 40% of the current cohort of the Centre for African Leaders in Agriculture being young farmers, the spotlight is on the proactive engagement of the youth to drive innovation and transformation in the agribusiness sector. Githinji Kolobo emphasized the need to demystify the outdated perceptions of agriculture and engage young people in policy-making processes to address the core challenges of youth employment in agribusiness. One of the key themes that emerged from the interview was the importance of including the voices of youth in agricultural discussions at all levels. Githinji Kolobo highlighted the need for youth to convene in groups to change the narrative around agriculture and ensure that policies targeting them are reflective of their needs and aspirations. By bringing together youth caucuses and leveraging their collective voices, the agricultural landscape can be reshaped to accommodate the innovative ideas and passion of the younger generation. Furthermore, Githinji Kolobo shed light on the shifting perceptions of youth towards agribusiness, emphasizing that young people are increasingly interested in entrepreneurship and leveraging technology to provide solutions in the sector. She shared examples of innovative youth-led initiatives, such as platforms connecting busy consumers with farm-fresh produce, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit and creativity of the younger generation. By showcasing these success stories and fostering a culture of networking and mentorship among youth, institutions like AGRA are paving the way for a new era of agribusiness in Africa. The interview also delved into the crucial role of technology in empowering youth in agriculture. Githinji Kolobo emphasized the need to scale up technological solutions across Africa and create partnerships that support the integration of youth into the sector. From artificial intelligence to mobile apps, technology is playing a transformative role in connecting young farmers with markets, information, and resources. By harnessing the power of technology, African youth can overcome barriers and unlock new opportunities in agribusiness, contributing to the continent's status as a global leader in food production. Key partnerships were highlighted as essential for supporting youth in agriculture, with programs like the Center for African Leaders in Agriculture spearheading initiatives to empower young leaders across the continent. By sponsoring youth delegates to attend global forums and networking events, AGRA is enabling young farmers to access markets, build connections, and showcase their products on a global stage. These partnerships not only provide practical support but also help to build the leadership capabilities of young agripreneurs, ensuring that they have the skills and resources to drive positive change in their communities. In conclusion, the interview with Lilian Githinji Kolobo illuminated the transformative potential of African youth in agribusiness and highlighted the critical role of institutions and partnerships in supporting their journey. By embracing innovation, technology, and collaboration, the youth are poised to lead the way towards a sustainable and prosperous future for agriculture in Africa.