The African continent is at a demographic crossroads. With over 60% of its population under 25, the potential impact of youth on the continent’s food systems is immense. By 2035, more young Africans will enter the workforce annually than the rest of the world combined, underscoring the urgency of youth engagement in agriculture. The 2025 African Food Systems Forum (AFS Forum) focused on this reality under the theme: “Africa’s Youth: Leading Collaboration, Innovation, and Implementation of Agri-Food Systems Transformation.” The forum highlighted Africa youth food as central to sustainable growth and resilience in food systems.
Youth Engagement and Leadership in Food Systems
The forum opened with high-level engagement between African leaders, including Presidents Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal and Paul Kagame of Rwanda, and young agrifood entrepreneurs. This interaction emphasized that Africa youth food leaders are not just participants but decision-makers capable of driving systemic change. The exchange underscored the importance of mentorship, cross-border collaboration, and knowledge sharing.
Recognizing Young Innovators
The “Go-Gettaz” awards celebrated youth achievements in agriculture, processing, and technology. Africa youth food innovators were honored for their creativity, problem-solving abilities, and their capacity to turn agricultural challenges into opportunities. These recognitions not only incentivize innovation but also create networks of support for young leaders across the continent.
Transforming Food Systems: Youth at the Core
The Africa Food Systems Report (AFSR) expanded the focus beyond traditional agriculture, viewing food systems holistically. Africa youth food is central to this transformation, taking on roles as farmers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and innovators. Empowering youth ensures that gains in nutrition, food security, and economic development are inclusive and sustainable.
Global Partnerships and Market Access
AFS Forum facilitated international collaboration. A notable outcome was the signing of the Global Future Foods Memorandum of Understanding with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which opens new markets for youth-led food innovations. White papers co-authored by the Gates Foundation and the World Bank highlighted digital agriculture solutions, reinforcing the importance of technology-led interventions by Africa youth food leaders.
Policy Pathways: From Forum Insights to CAADP Implementation
The third phase of CAADP (2026–2035), guided by the Kampala Declaration, provides a roadmap for youth-led food systems transformation. Africa youth food must be integrated into National Agrifood Systems Investment Plans (NASIPs) to ensure that policy intentions translate into tangible opportunities. The framework emphasizes equity, empowerment, and accountability.
Inclusive Financing and Land Access
CAADP’s objectives include inclusive financing, land access reforms, and youth-focused investment platforms. By improving access to capital, mentorship, and technology, Africa youth food entrepreneurs can scale innovations and address systemic gaps in production and distribution.
Skills Development and Digital Empowerment
Investing in technical and vocational education (TVET), digital literacy, and entrepreneurship training equips young Africans with the skills needed for modern agriculture. Africa youth food initiatives are leveraging these skills to implement climate-smart practices, data-driven decision-making, and technology-enabled supply chains, fostering resilience and sustainability.
Concrete Initiatives Emerging from AFS Forum 2025
The $6.7 million Food Trade Corridors Partnership, launched by the African Union, AGRA, and the United Kingdom, is designed to boost intra-African trade and support youth-led agribusiness. Africa youth food entrepreneurs gain access to markets, logistics, and investment, strengthening food value chains across borders.
Mentorship, Networking, and Peer Learning
Mentorship and peer learning platforms are critical for sustaining innovation. By connecting young leaders, sharing best practices, and fostering problem-solving collaborations, these platforms accelerate Africa youth food initiatives, ensuring long-term impact and scalability.
Challenges Facing Africa’s Youth in Food Systems
Despite progress, African youth face barriers such as high NEET rates (Not in Employment, Education, or Training), limited access to capital, and systemic inequality. Recent youth protests highlight the urgency of implementing policies that empower young people and align with CAADP objectives. National governments, private sector, and civil society must act to bridge these gaps.
Policy and Investment Gaps
Governments must simplify business registration, provide affordable intellectual property access, and improve financial inclusion. Investment in digital infrastructure, rural connectivity, vocational training, and agritech is essential for Africa youth food innovators to thrive. Clear indicators and robust monitoring frameworks ensure transparency and accountability.
Stakeholder Roles in Empowering Africa Youth Food
Policymakers, educational institutions, private investors, and NGOs must collaborate to create opportunities. Strategic investments in human capital, agritech, and infrastructure empower youth to lead transformation in food systems. Africa youth food initiatives can simultaneously improve nutrition, food security, and economic resilience.
Monitoring Progress and Accountability
Tracking impact through data and performance indicators ensures that youth-focused programs deliver measurable results. Policymakers must regularly review and adjust initiatives, reinforcing Africa youth food leadership and sustaining momentum for long-term transformation.
Conclusion: Africa Youth Food Driving Sustainable Growth
AFS Forum 2025 emphasized that Africa youth food is the driving force behind sustainable food systems transformation. With strategic investments, innovative policies, and capacity building, young Africans can reshape agriculture, enhance food security, and foster economic growth. Empowering youth is not optional—it is essential for the continent’s future.
Looking forward, policymakers, investors, and young leaders must maintain focus, leverage emerging technologies, and promote equitable access to resources. Africa youth food innovation represents the continent’s best hope for sustainable development, resilience, and inclusive growth.
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Additional references: International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)
