Why Young People Should Be Actively Involved in Agriculture in Kenya

In the hierarchy of human needs, food, clothing, and shelter stand as the basic necessities. Agriculture, remarkably, is the sector that directly impacts all three. This essential industry provides not only the sustenance required for survival but also the raw materials for clothing and the means for shelter. Therefore, whoever controls food production wields significant power not just in Africa but in the world. If young people in Kenya do not take an active role in agriculture, they are effectively relinquishing control over their future. It is imperative that the youth step up and take charge, ensuring food security and driving economic growth to whatever direction they wish to go. I mean, through actively engaging in providing the essentials in the world we are able to wild the reality of the world that we live in.

The Importance of Youth in Agriculture

1. Empowering the Future: Youth involvement in agriculture is crucial for securing the future. By actively participating in food production, young people actively ensure that they have control over their livelihoods and well-being. Agriculture offers a unique opportunity to influence and sustain the most fundamental aspects of human life.
2. Leveraging Youth Capabilities: The youth possess qualities that make them ideal candidates for revolutionizing the agricultural sector. Their ability to learn quickly, adapt to new technologies, and understand market trends gives them an edge. The youth therefore, rapidly identify what works and what doesn’t, allowing for more organic, efficient and innovative farming practices.

Exploring Opportunities in Agriculture

1. Vast Arable Land: Africa boasts around 60% of the world's arable land. This abundant resource presents a golden opportunity for young people to engage in farming activities that can feed not only the continent but also the entire world. By tapping into this potential, young farmers in Kenya will be able to make a substantial impact on global food security.
2. Technological Innovations: Modern agriculture is not just about traditional farming; it involves cutting-edge technology. Drones for crop monitoring, automated irrigation systems, and mobile apps for farm management are just a few examples. Young people are naturally inclined to adopt and excel with these technologies, making them crucial players in the future of farming.
3. Diverse Career Paths: Agriculture offers a plethora of career opportunities beyond just farming. Young people can explore roles in agribusiness, supply chain management, agricultural research, and food technology. By diversifying their involvement, they youth will be able to contribute to different facets of the agricultural value chain.

The Role of Government and Policy

To make agriculture an attractive and viable career option for the youth, governments must create favourable policies. This includes providing access to land, affordable financing options, and training programs. However, it is also up to the youth to identify gaps in the system and fill them with strategic and innovative solutions. To be the change we are looking for, the youth must take the initiative to drive change and not wait for external forces to shape their destiny. Godai Ltd. and Project Youth Mashambani: Empowering Youth At Godai Ltd., through Project Youth Mashambani, we are dedicated to empowering young Kenyans to see the vast opportunities in agriculture. We have been able to partner with a number of key players within the Kenyan agricultural sector to make our vision moving. Some of these companies include: Davis & Shirtliff, Syngenta Kenya, Rhea Soil Health, Yara Fertilizers

Our mission is to engage the youth in taking control of the agricultural sector, thereby securing the future of their country and continent. Here’s how we are making a difference:

1. Education and Training: We offer comprehensive training programs that cover a wide range of agricultural practices. From traditional farming techniques to advanced technological solutions, our programs equip young farmers with the knowledge they need to succeed. We make information easily accessible to our farmers.
2. Networking and Support: Through Project Youth Mashambani, we create a network of young farmers who support each other, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects. This community-driven approach ensures that young people do not feel isolated in their agricultural endeavours. There is a community around them keeping everyone engaged and making the whole process inclusive and fun.
3. Access to Resources: We facilitate access to essential resources, including funds, seeds, fertilizers, and modern farming equipment. Additionally, we provide guidance on securing funding and navigating the financial landscape of agriculture.
4. Advocacy and Policy Engagement: We work closely with policymakers to advocate for youth-friendly agricultural policies. By bridging the gap between young farmers and the government, we ensure that the needs and voices of the youth are heard and addressed.

Conclusion

Involving Kenyan young people in agriculture is not just about securing food production; it is about empowering the next generation to take control of their future. The youth in Kenya have the potential to revolutionize the agricultural sector through innovation, technology, and strategic thinking. By stepping into this field, they will be able to drive economic growth, ensure food security, and contribute to the global food supply. At Godai Ltd., we are committed to supporting young farmers through Project Youth Mashambani. Together, we can create a sustainable and prosperous future for Kenya and Africa. Join us in this journey, and let’s make agriculture the thriving, respected industry it deserves to be.

For more information on our programs and upcoming events, feel free to reach out to us.

Link: HyddrooHarvest