Role of Youth in Building Resilient Agri-food Systems in Africa | Michigan State University & Alliance for African Partnership

21 October 2021. Side event The International Borlaug Dialogue. Role of Youth in Building Resilient Agri-food Systems in Africa | Michigan State University & Alliance for African Partnership

Building a sustained and resilient agri-food system in Africa is an intergenerational mandate which demands the active engagement of African youth. With their large numbers, relatively high educational levels, and affinity for digital technology, African youth represent an indispensable resource, which if properly harnessed, can foster a more resilient and productive agri-food system. However, questions remain on effective strategies to harness youth innovativeness and energy. 

To help provide guidance for policy, this session discussed evidence-based and pragmatic approaches that could foster productive youth engagements supportive of resilient agri-food systems in Africa.  

A panel of experts drawn from MSU and AAP partner institutions, Foundations and youth leaders shared insights highlighting the relevance of the agri-food system to youth livelihoods, the role youth could play to foster a resilient agri-food system, and salient trends, barriers and promising entry points for policy that could equip African youth with the skills, space and resources to effectively contribute to a productive and resilient agri-food system.

• Prof Lindiwe Sibanda - Director, ARUA Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Food Systems, University of Pretoria
• Felix Kwame Yeboah - Professor of International Development, Michigan State University (MSU)
• Betty Kibaara - Director, Food Initiative at The Rockefeller Foundation, Africa Region Office
• Richard Todosia Ruto - President, National Youth Bunge Association (NYBA), Kenya; and Director, West Pokot Youth Bunge County Forum
• Sera Gondwe - Business Economist and Faculty, Lilongwe University of Agriculture & Natural Resources (LUANAR)
• Somachi Chris-Asoluka - Director of Partnerships and Communications, Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF)