Time to Walk the Talk: Investing in Young Farmers and Entrepreneurs for Africa’s Food System Transformation
Africa stands at a critical turning point in its journey toward sustainable food systems. While the continent holds immense agricultural potential, realizing this promise requires more than just dialogue; it calls for bold investments in young farmers and entrepreneurs who are ready to lead the change.
For too long, youth engagement in agriculture has been discussed as an aspiration. Now, it is time to walk the talk. Empowering young people with resources, skills, and opportunities can unlock innovative solutions that not only transform agriculture but also drive rural development and economic growth.
Collaboration among governments, development organizations, the private sector, and smallholder farmers is essential if Africa is to harness the creativity, resilience, and energy of its young population. Equally important is collaboration among entrepreneurs themselves, creating networks where young agripreneurs can share experiences, pool resources, and inspire each other to scale solutions that work. This is how innovation accelerates and impact multiplies.
The Africa Food Systems Forum (AFS Forum), formerly AGRF, has become the world’s premier platform for shaping the future of African agriculture. Each year, it brings together policymakers, businesses, development partners, and farmers to take practical actions and share lessons that move food systems forward. It is here that strategies are designed, commitments are made, and pathways are crafted toward inclusive and sustainable food system transformation.
This year’s theme, “Africa’s Youth: Leading Collaboration, Innovation, and Implementation of Agrifood Systems Transformation,” could not have been more fitting for OBRI Africa. Young people are uniquely positioned to influence and reimagine the global food system, often starting with small but powerful acts of collaboration and innovation.
At OBRI Africa, we are committed to driving this agenda. Through our active engagement at the then AGRF, particularly in the African Resilient and Investment Series for Women Executives led by AGRA’s Gender and Inclusiveness Unit to date, we have been intentionally creating spaces for young entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, learn, and thrive. From engaging in deal rooms and seminars to accessing capacity-building and technical support, our focus has been clear: work with young people and farmers, equip them, especially women, to thrive in agriculture and food systems.
But the conversation can no longer end at conferences and workshops. It is time for meaningful investment. By channeling capital, mentorship, and policy support toward young farmers and entrepreneurs and by fostering stronger collaboration among young people, Africa can unlock a future where its food systems are efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.
