Kenya: The agriculture sector in Kenya continues to play a crucial role in generating employment, boosting the economy, and addressing food insecurity. However, it faces dual challenges in the form of climate change and an evolving agribusiness environment, necessitating the adoption of technology across all its value chains.

According to Kenya News Agency, in response to these challenges, over 40 enthusiastic young agripreneurs from all 47 counties have been trained in Agroecology value chain skills and social media marketing techniques by Participatory Ecological Land Use Management (PELUM). This initiative aims to equip them for the modern market. The three-day empowerment training, conducted at Baraka Agriculture College in Nakuru County, focused on Agroecology, business proposal development, financial management, and general agripreneur skills. The training covered practical skills in key areas such as poultry production, African leafy vegetables, biofertilizer production, and sustainable animal feed innovations like azolla-based feeds.

Collins Otieno, an agripreneur from Kajiado County, highlighted his organic peanut butter production as an example of Agroecology innovation aimed at offering alternative solutions for agriculture and health-conscious consumers. He commended PELUM Kenya for the impactful knowledge gained, which he believes will enhance his marketing skills and improve his organic business. Otieno emphasized the importance of digital platforms in reaching a wider audience and urged fellow youths to use social media constructively to create opportunities and drive economic growth.

Otieno also called on the government to provide an enabling environment and financial support for youths, who make up 65% of the population, to engage in agribusinesses that can feed Africa and create jobs. He highlighted the benefits of Agroecology, noting that it safeguards consumer health and preserves soil fertility and biodiversity while reducing the health risks associated with chemical use in conventional farming.

Nyambura Simiyu, an established agripreneur from Spring Agric, stressed the importance of investing in agripreneurs to transform Africa's agricultural sector into a profitable and sustainable industry. She noted the potential for youth-led, tech-driven agribusinesses to address food insecurity and create jobs, while calling for improved funding policies to support youth enterprises.

Moraa Ratemo, a programs officer at PELUM, emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting Agroecology farming in 14 countries. She advocated for the use of indigenous foods and highlighted the need for a holistic approach to Africa's food systems that embeds nutrition, health, and sustainability.

Pamela Nasimiyu, Principal of Baraka Agricultural College, reiterated the institution's dedication to advancing sustainable agriculture as a driver of rural development. She emphasized the importance of equipping young people with practical skills to bridge the gap between organic farming practices and modern sustainable approaches. Nasimiyu also highlighted the critical role of access to capital in advancing agriculture in Africa, noting it remains a key limiting factor.