THIKA, Kenya – A significant shift towards agriculture among Kenya’s youth is sparking optimism for the country’s food security goals. This trend was highlighted during a recent graduation ceremony at the College of Sustainable Agriculture for Eastern Africa in Thika East, Kiambu County, where it was reported that the enrollment in agriculture courses has seen a substantial increase.
According to Kenya News Agency, Chairperson of the College Board of Trustees, the college alone has witnessed a jump in students pursuing organic farming—from 30 last year to over 200 this year. This increase is reflective of a broader national trend, with other agricultural colleges across the country also reporting rising enrollment numbers. Mutuura underscored the significance of this shift, suggesting that the growing interest among youth in agriculture courses is a positive indicator for Kenya’s food security ambitions.
Dr. Mutuura emphasized the importance of integrating the youth into the national agriculture agenda, noting their acquisition of relevant skills as a critical component in enhancing food security. He advocated for the government to make agriculture a compulsory subject in schools to help young people recognize the sector’s opportunities. Additionally, Mutuura called for government support for individuals pursuing research and innovation in agriculture, which he believes are key to unlocking the sector’s potential for sustainability.
Highlighting the role of county governments, Mutuura urged them to fill staffing gaps, particularly in agricultural extension services, by hiring specialists in the field. Laura Benning, the Country Coordinator for Kenya at the GLS Future Foundation of Development, which focuses on agricultural sustainability, also commented on the changing perceptions of agriculture among the youth. She noted that the outdated view of agriculture as an unprofitable career is being replaced by a recognition of its benefits, thanks in part to the digital transformation of the sector.
The graduates, including Mary Wanjiru, expressed optimism about the prospects agriculture offers, particularly through the use of ICT for marketing produce both locally and internationally. They highlighted how digital skills combined with practical farming knowledge are eliminating middlemen, making the sector more profitable and creating substantial earning opportunities.
The graduation ceremony served not only as a celebration of the students’ achievements but also as a testament to the changing attitudes towards agriculture among Kenya’s youth. It underscored the critical role that agricultural education and innovation will play in addressing challenges such as poverty and climate change, and in achieving the country’s food security goals.