"African Leaders Urged to Prioritize Youth-Focused Policies for Sustainable Food Security"

"African Leaders Urged to Prioritize Youth-Focused Policies for Sustainable Food Security"

By Felicia Imohimi

ABUJA, NIGERIA August, 2024 - Agriculture stakeholders have called on African leaders to prioritize youth-focused policies to ensure sustainable food production and nutrition security on the continent. The stakeholders made this call at the Sahel Scholars' Conference, themed "The Strategic Role of African Youth in Driving Solutions for Sustainable Food Security."

Temi Adegoroye, Managing Partner at Sahel Consulting Nutrition and Agriculture Limited, emphasized the need for policies supporting youth-led agro-businesses. He highlighted the potential of technological innovations in the food ecosystem and the importance of creating an enabling environment for organizations to thrive.

Adegoroye noted that Africa is the leading producer of various value chain crops but struggles with self-sufficiency in food production due to challenges like poor harvests, post-harvest losses, and lack of processing. He stressed the need for young entrepreneurs, financial inclusion, and technological involvement across the food production chain.

Patrick Tognisso, Chief Operating Officer at myAgro and Board Member at Sahel Consulting Nutrition and Agriculture Limited, emphasized the importance of focusing on production and value creation among African youth. He highlighted the continent's predominantly rural population and the significance of agriculture in Sub-Saharan countries.

Mr. Olawande Ayodele, Minister of State for Youth, challenged youths to develop production and value creation skills, emphasizing the need for patronage and support from governments and stakeholders to tap into the continent's rich potential.