In a country where agriculture contributes over 33% of the national GDP, the active involvement of youth in farming remains surprisingly low. But a recent event at Siaya National Polytechnic has shown that when young people take the lead, agriculture becomes more than just a livelihood—it becomes a movement for change.
At the heart of the gathering was a simple but powerful idea: empower the youth, and they will reshape the future of food and economic security in Kenya. Students and young professionals participated in tree planting drives, led vibrant agribusiness discussions, and mentored local communities on sustainable farming practices.
This initiative spotlighted how the next generation is not just interested in agriculture—they are innovating it. From exploring climate-smart farming methods to launching youth-led agribusiness startups, participants demonstrated that agriculture can be a powerful tool against youth unemployment and food insecurity.
“Today, we planted trees—but more importantly, we planted ideas,” said one of the youth leaders at the event. “This is about building a sustainable future with our own hands.”
The momentum from Siaya sends a clear message: investing in youth agriculture is not just about growing crops. It’s about nurturing the next generation of thinkers, entrepreneurs, and change-makers who can drive Kenya’s economy forward.
The call is now to stakeholders—government, private sector, and civil society—to back this potential. With the right support, Kenya’s youth can turn agriculture into a cornerstone of innovation and prosperity.
