Heifer International on the role of youth & tech in African agriculture

A recent survey by Heifer International has shed light on the challenges faced by smallholder farming communities in Africa and the potential areas for innovation and growth in the agriculture sector. Africa is a continent abundant in arable land, with agriculture contributing significantly to the gross domestic product (GDP) of several Sub-Saharan African countries. However, despite its economic importance, agriculture in Africa faces a critical issue - the sector remains unattractive to the continent's youth, and the adoption of technology among smallholder farmers is low. Dr. Elisee Kamanzi, the Country Director of Heifer International Rwanda, shared insights on the survey findings and the path to a more sustainable and technology-driven future for African agriculture. Dr. Kamanzi underscored the crucial role of the youth in agriculture, noting that while the continent's population is largely young, only a small percentage of youth are engaged in agriculture and utilize technology in their farming practices. The survey revealed that challenges such as funding, training, and access to technology are key barriers preventing youth from pursuing agriculture as a viable career option. Moreover, organizations working in the agricultural sector echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for improved access to financial resources, land, and training for smallholder farmers. To address these challenges and attract more youth to agriculture, Dr. Kamanzi emphasized the importance of investing in the sector and promoting the adoption of technology and innovation. He highlighted the need for governments to fulfill their commitment to creating employment opportunities for the youth in agriculture and stressed the significance of equipping young farmers with the tools and technology necessary to enhance productivity and sustainability. Dr. Kamanzi also discussed the low adoption of technology among smallholder farmers, citing factors such as the need for user-friendly and affordable technology solutions that provide valuable information for farmers to effectively manage their businesses. Despite the current barriers, Dr. Kamanzi expressed optimism about the future of agriculture in Africa, pointing to the potential for technology to revolutionize the sector. He highlighted the innovative use of artificial intelligence, remote sensing, virtual reality, and other advanced technologies by young farmers in Africa, signaling a shift towards a more tech-savvy and efficient agricultural landscape. With a concerted effort towards investment, innovation, and youth engagement, the future of African agriculture looks promising, offering the potential for increased productivity, sustainability, and food security across the continent.