With the recently commenced 2024 African Union Summit, Kenyan youth have raised their voices, emphasising the importance of placing food security at the forefront of the agenda. With an unwavering focus on the future, these passionate Hungry for Action activists recognise the pivotal role that youth can play in combating hunger and malnutrition across Africa. Their advocacy strategies were eloquently presented to Dr. Dominic Menjo, the Food Security Adviser in the President’s Executive Office, during a significant meeting held on February 16, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya.

Role of youth in food security in Africa

Agriculture is a cornerstone of society, providing the food we eat and serving as a foundation for economic growth and stability. It is essential for ensuring food security, as it produces the crops and livestock that sustain populations worldwide. Additionally, agriculture contributes significantly to economic development by generating employment opportunities, supporting rural livelihoods, and driving economic growth.

However, despite agriculture’s crucial role in food security and economic development, there is a noticeable absence of young people actively engaging in the agricultural sector. This is attributed to limited access to land, inadequate training and education opportunities, insufficient financial support, and a lack of supportive policies and infrastructure. This lack of involvement from the youth demographic is concerning. First, it poses a threat to the future sustainability of agriculture, as a new generation of farmers is not adequately replacing the ageing farming population. Without a steady influx of young individuals entering the sector, there is a risk of declining agricultural productivity and innovation over time.

Furthermore, the underrepresentation of young people in agriculture means that the sector is missing out on the fresh perspectives, energy, and creativity that the youth bring. Young people are innovative and willing to embrace new technologies and practices, which are essential for driving agricultural progress and adaptation to changing global challenges such as climate change and food security.

The lack of active involvement of young people in agriculture despite its critical role in food security and economic development highlights a significant gap that needs to be addressed. Encouraging and empowering young individuals to participate in agriculture is essential for ensuring the sector’s sustainability, fostering innovation, and securing a prosperous future for agriculture and society.

Recommendations

• Youth-centric Policies: Government entities should prioritise developing and implementing policies that specifically address the needs and challenges faced by young people in agriculture. This includes policies related to access to land, financial support, training, and participation in decision-making processes.
• Resource Allocation: Allocate resources towards youth-focused agricultural initiatives, such as establishing agricultural training centres in rural areas, providing financial incentives, and facilitating access to markets and technology.
• Meaningful Participation: Actively involve young people in formulating and implementing agricultural policies and programs. This can be achieved by appointing youth representatives to relevant task forces, committees, and advisory boards.
• Adequate Financing: Governments collaborate with financial institutions to curate mechanisms of inclusive financing programs for the youth, such as collateral-free loans and contract farming.

Seize the Moment: A Call to Action

As Kenyan youth advocates sound the clarion call, the time for action is now. Let us rally behind these bold initiatives, transforming agriculture and nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. Together, we can build a healthier, more educated, and prosperous Kenya for generations.