Agriculture
Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) convened a session with 100 youth in Agri-food systems to discuss climate change and possible solutions.
The youth shared new approaches that they have employed to reduce climate vulnerability in the country during the fourth convention since AGRA kicked off National Level conversation on climate. AGRA aims to improve adaptation of Agri-food and farming systems to climate change so that small farmers can increase their resilience thus transforming agriculture from a solitary struggle for survival into thriving Businesses across the continent.
Speaking during the event held in Nairobi, Gender and Affirmative Action advisor for the president’s economic transformation office, Ms. Elizabeth Ngeny stated that the leadership of young Kenyans is vital in guiding the nation towards a sustainable and resilient future in the realm of agriculture which is fundamental to food security and economics.
“We are at a critical moment where the choices that we make and the actions we take would profoundly impact the future of our planet and our nation,” said Ms. Ngeny. She pointed out the success achieved by the 2023 Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi which underscored the urgency of enhanced climate action.
“At the climate summit, global leaders, scientists and activists convened to address the escalating climate crisis and resolved to accelerate efforts to meet the Paris agreement target to boost financial support for climate adaptation and mitigation in developing countries and enhance youth inclusion in decision making process,” Ms. Ngeny said
She added that according to the 2022 climate report by an intergovernmental panel, global temperatures are rising at an unprecedented rate with Africa experiencing even more warming compared to the global average leading to more frequent and severe weather events such as drought, floods and heat waves.
“It is crucial that as government and stakeholders, we provide young people with tools, knowledge and the platforms that they need for meaningful involvement in policy development, decision making and entrepreneurial opportunities which will enable them assume leadership roles in crafting solutions that address climate impact and drive sustainable development,” Ms. Ngeny commented.
She noted that NGOs and academic institutions play a huge role in advancement of climate change and intervention initiatives citing that organizations such as the Kenya meteorological department and University of Nairobi institution of climate change have been instrumental in conducting climate change research.
AGRA Head of Climate Adaptation Dr. Kindie Fantaye said that unemployment rate among young people is at around 22% caused by a struggle to find jobs, limited access to qualified education and vocational training sites. “The Kenyan government has introduced policies like the national climate change action plan to support climate action initiatives,” said Dr. Fantaye.
He called on the stakeholders to change the world by utilizing this once in a lifetime chance to make the world a better place. “Together, we can build a sustainable future where our youth are not only survivors of climate change but leaders in creating a resilient and prosperous Kenya,” said Dr.Fantaye.