Young People and Agriculture: Strategic Priorities for Impact

While the narrative around agriculture in Africa can invoke a story of back-breaking labor and subsistence, with agriculture seen as a last resort option for the poor, there is a much different story to cultivate. Investing in agriculture growth is 11 times more effective for overall economic growth when compared to other sectors such as mining, utilities, and services. 

In fact, estimates project that African agriculture and agribusiness could be worth $1 trillion by 2030. Young people, with their creativity, drive and innovation, have incredible potential to revolutionize the sector and their economies, ensuring safe and reputable livelihoods alongside improved household and community food security. It is imperative that we continue to build a positive, reciprocal relationship in which young people are building a vibrant and innovative agriculture sector and, in turn, the sector offers opportunities for young people to build healthy, bright and safe futures.

Our vision is that young people play vibrant and diverse roles across the agriculture sector—accessing safe, profitable and dignified work throughout agricultural markets and value chains; contributing to the food and nutritional security of their communities; leveraging technology to revolutionize the field; and thriving within supportive environments, including their families, communities and markets.