What's Happening?
In East Africa, particularly Kenya and Uganda, a transformative movement is reshaping agriculture through the collaboration of rural youth and cooperative societies. The CABI-led PlantwisePlus programme empowers young people to become service providers and agri-entrepreneurs, enhancing farmer productivity and rural livelihoods. This initiative addresses youth unemployment and limited access to agricultural advisory services, equipping young individuals with skills in pest management, pruning, and market engagement. Cooperatives like Makueni County Fruit Processors and KEITT Exporters in Kenya, along with Rubanga and ZAABTA in Uganda, integrate trained youths into their service delivery chains, resulting in improved produce quality and increased farmer reach.
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Why It's Important?
The integration of youth into agricultural cooperatives in East Africa represents a scalable model for addressing youth unemployment and enhancing rural economies. By providing technical training and business opportunities, the initiative not only improves agricultural productivity but also fosters economic empowerment among young people. This model has led to tangible improvements in produce quality and farmer income, demonstrating its potential to transform rural communities. The success of these cooperatives highlights the importance of youth engagement in agriculture, offering a blueprint for sustainable development and poverty reduction in the region.
What's Next?
The cooperatives involved in this initiative recommend scaling the model by onboarding more youth and formalizing service contracts. This includes expanding practical training and mentorship opportunities, leveraging the cooperative model for broader impact, and enhancing produce buy-back schemes. Addressing challenges such as transport and payment gaps, as well as skill gaps in areas like regenerative agriculture and financial literacy, will be crucial for the continued success and expansion of this model. The focus will be on strengthening cooperative networks and increasing youth participation to further boost agricultural productivity and rural development.
