Dakar, Senegal — Africa’s youth are not just the future—they are the present force driving change across the continent’s agri-food landscape. This was the rallying call from AGRA Board Chair, Hailemariam Dessalegn, during the official launch of the Africa Food Systems Forum in Dakar.
The launch event, held at the Grand Théâtre de Dakar, marks the start of the Forum’s 2025 preparations, culminating in the main summit from 29 August to 5 September 2025 in Dakar, Senegal. The event was co-chaired by H.E. Ousmane Sonko, Prime Minister of Senegal, and H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, Chair of the Africa Food Systems Forum and former Prime Minister of Ethiopia
With Africa holding nearly 42% of the global youth population, the continent is sitting on a demographic goldmine of innovation, energy, and transformative potential. Dessalegn emphasized that these young minds are not mere beneficiaries of development programs—they are trailblazers shaping Africa’s agricultural destiny.
From digital marketplaces in Nigeria, to mobile regulatory platforms in Kenya, and drone-assisted seed planting in Rwanda, youth-led innovations are already revolutionizing food systems across Africa. These technologies are tackling long-standing challenges in food security, market access, and climate resilience—showcasing the power of homegrown, tech-savvy solutions.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Africa Food Systems Forum will spotlight the theme:
“Africa’s Youth Leading Collaboration, Innovation, and Implementation of Agri-Food Systems Transformation.”
The forum aims to scale breakthrough innovations while channeling investment into youth-driven enterprises and emerging agri-technologies.
Dessalegn made a strong case for youth-centered policy design, urging stakeholders to embed young voices into every level of policy dialogue and implementation. “We must build ecosystems where young people can not only thrive but lead,” he said.
At Hortinews, we celebrate these bold strides. Africa’s agricultural transformation depends on the empowerment of its youth—not just in rhetoric, but in actionable investment, inclusive policies, and real opportunities.
As the continent counts down to the 2025 forum, one message rings clear:
Africa’s food future is young, innovative, and unstoppable.