By Agrobroadcast Team
Discussions at the 49th Governing Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in Rome have underscored the central role of young people in transforming Africa’s agricultural sector and driving inclusive economic growth.
Speaking during a high-level session alongside IFAD President, Álvaro Lario, with journalist Melissa Bell moderating and young agripreneurs sharing their experiences, participants highlighted Africa’s unique demographic advantage.
The continent remains the youngest in the world, with about 60 per cent of its population under 25 years, while projections show that nearly 440 million young Africans will join the labour market by 2030.
With more than half of Africa’s population residing in rural areas, agriculture was described as far more than a means of survival. It is a critical economic pillar that supplies food to urban centres, fuels rural development and sustains millions of households.
Speakers stressed that Africa’s growth ambitions cannot be realised without reliable food systems and productive rural economies.
Emphasis was placed on targeted investment in young entrepreneurs as a pathway to long-term development. Supporting youth-led enterprises, particularly in agriculture, was said to have multiplier effects, including job creation, poverty reduction and stronger local economies.
Addressing the challenge of youth migration, speakers noted that movement away from rural areas is often driven by limited economic opportunities rather than choice.
In response, initiatives such as those of the Tony Elumelu Foundation were cited, with agriculture and agribusiness accounting for 21 per cent of the 24,000 entrepreneurs supported by the foundation.
Collectively, these ventures have generated more than 400,000 direct and indirect jobs, reinforcing food value chains and rural livelihoods across the continent.
The forum concluded with a clear message: Africa’s young people are not waiting for aid. Through innovation, enterprise and agriculture, they are actively shaping the continent’s future.