The youth in Kenya have been challenged to engage in agriculture to create employment opportunities and contribute to food security. This comes as the country faces an ageing farmers' challenge. According to Chris Kimathi, founding director of Kilimo Kraft Innovations Africa, young people can create employment for themselves and enhance food security by utilizing the available land.
The call to action was made during the inaugural Kilimo Kraft Innovations Africa Agricultural Expo at Kairuni Stadium in Maara Constituency, Tharaka-Nithi County. The expo brought together farmers from across the region, agricultural institutions, input suppliers, and other stakeholders. The event aimed to change the perception that agriculture is an unattractive and less rewarding career.
Kimathi emphasized that the average age of farmers in Kenya is about 70 years, highlighting the need for more young people to join farming ventures. He encouraged young people to do away with the notion that they will all get white-collar jobs, as the government cannot employ everybody. With rich agricultural soils, Kimathi urged farmers to make productive use of the available parcels.
Tharaka-Nithi County Veterinary Officer Denis Nyamu stated that the devolved unit is partnering with farmers to improve livestock production through affordable artificial insemination (AI) services. The Governor Muthomi Njuki administration is providing AI services and focusing on improving livestock breeds according to the different ecological zones.
Chuka University's Pamela Apuko mentioned that the institution is working with farmers to provide students with practical agricultural experience and equip them with skills to address unemployment and food insecurity. The university runs the Kaieuni Farm and offers various agriculture-related courses, conducts research, and discussions on climate change and its impacts.
The expo also showcased innovative solutions aimed at turning agricultural waste into economic opportunities. One of the solutions was using banana fibre to make sanitary towels, which has the potential to create a market for banana waste while encouraging farmers to increase banana production.
Various organizations, including Agribase Bio Science International and Bayer East Africa, are working with farmers to provide education on the use of quality seeds and training on how to identify certified planting seeds. The goal is to promote sustainable agriculture practices and improve food security in the country.
Key points
- The average age of farmers in Kenya is about 70 years.
- Young people are being encouraged to take up agriculture to address unemployment and food security concerns.
- The Kilimo Kraft Innovations Africa Agricultural Expo aims to change the perception that agriculture is an unattractive and less rewarding career.
