Centering African Youth
Africa’s young population stood at the heart of many conversations. From school feeding programs that stimulate demand for nutritious foods to youth-led agribusiness training hubs in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Malawi, the takeaway was clear: young Africans are not spectators, they are central actors. The challenge is shifting mindsets to see agriculture as an innovative, viable career while ensuring access to finance for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Key reflections on youth:
- Youth-led training programs are already creating impact but need greater investment.
- Peer success stories can inspire others to pursue agribusiness careers.
- Growth-oriented youth entrepreneurs need tailored support and access to finance.
Seeds, Markets & Women’s Agency
Strengthening local seed production, linking smallholders to markets, and ensuring access to improved, certified seeds—both cereals and horticultural—are essential to resilience. WHH presented insights on “opportunity crops” that boost nutrition while building climate resilience. Women, too, emerged as essential change-makers—championing equitable access to resources and unlocking transformative agricultural leadership.
Trade, Innovation & Going Beyond Aid
A recurring message at the forum: trade—not aid—must drive sustainable growth. Market systems, even in fragile contexts, show resilience through innovation and adaptation. Funding constraint can push creativity, enabling local actors to “achieve more with less” and co-create solutions responsive to context and scale.
