Engage Youth in Farming

Nakuru, Tuesday June 27, 2023

KNA by Veronica Bosibori

The Nakuru youth leader John Kanyi today urged county governments to engage youth in farming since they have the capacity of leveraging new tools and techniques to increase productivity and meet the growing demand for food in the country.

He said in recent years, there has been a growing trend of young people moving away from the agricultural sector in search of white-collar jobs in the urban areas, and leaving farming to the elderly.

However, Kanyi said the trend was unsustainable and youths should start perceiving and accepting agriculture as a valuable profession since it’s a vital economic sector, contributing 24 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and, employing 70 percent of the rural population.

He noted that by taking up farming, youth can play a crucial role in driving the country’s economic growth and development. He was speaking today at Viwanda where youths interested in poultry farming are being trained on proper management of the trade.

He observed that by adopting modern agricultural practices, they can produce high-quality broilers, layers, crops, and livestock that meet the growing demand for the domestic and international markets.

He also said young people can lead the charge in promoting sustainable agricultural practices such as organic farming, agroforestry, and conservation agriculture which would help in protecting the environment and promoting food security.

Additionally, the youth leader said taking up farming can provide young people with a sense of pride and purpose. By producing food, they can contribute to their communities’ well-being and address the growing food insecurity in the country.

Apart from that, Kanyi advised the youth that when practiced accurately, the agricultural sector provides good incomes, and financial stability, reducing the reliance on unstable and precarious employment in urban areas.

The youth leader pointed out that the agricultural sector presents many opportunities for young people to build successful and sustainable livelihoods. And, with the right support, training, and improved infrastructure, they can drive the country’s agricultural transformation, instead of leaving it to the aging.

In Nakuru county, the median age of farmers is between 55-65 years, and there has been a concern that, unless the youth join the trade, food security is likely to continue being a serious issue.

Courtesy ; K. N. A