What's Happening?
Olamide Alao-Akala, founder of UMèRA Farms & Business School, is advocating for a rebranding of agriculture in Nigeria to make it more appealing to the youth. In an interview, she shared her journey into
agribusiness, which began unexpectedly when she was asked to oversee her family's farm. Despite initial reluctance, she found a passion for the field and has since become a prominent voice in redefining agriculture. Alao-Akala emphasizes the need for agriculture to be seen as a modern, innovative industry rather than one associated with hardship. She highlights the importance of integrating technology, logistics, and finance into agribusiness to attract young people. Her efforts include the development of Alaafia Village, an agrotourism and innovation resort designed to showcase the exciting potential of agriculture.
Why It's Important?
The rebranding of agriculture is crucial for Nigeria's economic development and food security. By making agriculture more appealing to the youth, the sector can benefit from fresh ideas and innovations that young people bring. This shift could lead to increased investment in agriculture, improved productivity, and ultimately, a more robust agricultural sector. Alao-Akala's approach also addresses gender biases in the industry, encouraging more women to participate and lead in agribusiness. Her model of 'farm ownership without farming' allows investors to engage in agriculture without the traditional burdens, potentially increasing investment from both local and international stakeholders.
What's Next?
Alao-Akala plans to continue her efforts to bridge the perception gap in agriculture through initiatives like Alaafia Village. The government and private sector are encouraged to invest in agricultural education and create youth-friendly funding schemes. These steps are expected to make agribusiness more visible and profitable for young Nigerians. The success of these initiatives could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges in engaging youth in agriculture.
Beyond the Headlines
The push for rebranding agriculture also touches on broader themes of sustainability and food security. By promoting regenerative farming practices and sustainable agricultural methods, UMèRA Farms is contributing to long-term environmental health. This approach not only benefits the local ecosystem but also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and ensure food security for future generations.
