Engaging young people in agriculture

Engaging young people in agriculture

A webinar to inspire and prepare the next generation, especially in horticulture

On 21 November 2024, COLEAD organised an exceptional webinar in the framework of the FFM+ programme to address a crucial issue: how to attract and mobilise young talent to boost the horticultural sector and build a sustainable future? With a predominantly young population in Africa and a median age of only 18.3 years, the potential for revitalising this key sector is immense.

Horticulture: an opportunity for youth

Horticulture is more than agricultural production. It offers a wide range of entrepreneurial opportunities, from technological innovations such as drones to high-impact local initiatives. The sector offers young people rewarding careers in line with environmental and digital transitions.

Through its programmes and tools, COLEAD plays a crucial role in providing tailored resources and targeted training to make horticulture a career of choice. The training centres and their collaboration with institutions such as Kenyatta University in Kenya are concrete examples of partnerships that turn challenges into opportunities.

Webinar highlights

The programme covered a range of key topics:

• Digital strategies for engaging young people through social networks;
• Using COLEAD’s digital tools to educate and inspire.
• An inspiring testimonial from a partnership between Kenyatta University and COLEAD.

Mr Jared Onduso, an experienced COLEAD trainer, stressed the importance of innovation and mentoring, highlighting approaches such as interactive campaigns on social networks and virtual visits. For his part, Derrick Mulei, a plant science student, shared his practical experience and the challenges he overcame during his internship with East African Growers.

This event is part of COLEAD’s wider efforts to promote social, economic and environmental sustainability. Through global programmes such as Fit for Market Plus and national programmes such as NExt Kenya, COLEAD’s initiatives aim to strengthen young people’s skills, improve market access and promote agricultural practices that are resilient to climate change.

More broadly, COLEAD is committed to supporting young talent in the transition to sustainable food systems, giving a new generation the opportunity to play a key role in the future of the agricultural sector.

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.