The youth in Africa have called for increased investment in agro-ecology and local value addition to transform the African food system.
Agro-ecology is the application of natural principles to agricultural systems and practices.
In a declaration at the end of the first thousand African youth summit on food systems and agro-ecology in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, representatives of the youth in Africa called on governments to ensure equitable access to land, water, energy and vital resources for youths, small producers and entrepreneurs to drive agro-ecological innovation.
The declaration says the current food system is failing “our generation” and the African continent as a whole, calling on the authorities to support small-scale farmers and foster youth-driven agro-ecological entrepreneurship for a more resilient food system.
“The youth’s expertise, passion and commitment will be critical to drive forward solutions for a dignified food system that serves both present and future generations, placing agro-ecological and farmer-driven solutions at the forefront,” the declaration reads.
It then calls for more efforts to strengthen political dialogue with youths to promote agroecology and sustainable food systems in African countries, saying the concept offers a chance to promote sustainable agricultural practices while resisting an economic system that prioritises profits over people.
“By embracing agroecology, a food system can be built that is healthy, just and culturally appropriate and respects our heritage and preserves our values,” it says.
Participatory Ecological Land Use, Management practices (Pelum) in Malawi Country Representative Nozgenji Bilima attended the conference and said it strengthens youths’ participation in agro-ecology.
“Representatives of Africa’s dynamic young generation, comprising 60 percent of the continent’s population, recognise the urgent need to address the challenges threatening the future of African’s food systems and sovereignty.
“Therefore, the meeting strengthened this resolve,” Bilima says.
Dubbed the summit of solutions, the conference brought together over 300 youths in person while more than 1,000 others attended virtually.
