Youth Participation in Agriculture on the rise in Kenya

In recent years, there has been a marked shift in the perception of agriculture among Kenya’s youth, driven by government and non-governmental programs designed to make farming more accessible and appealing to younger generations.
Traditionally seen as a sector for older generations, agriculture in Kenya was often viewed by young people as a last-resort career choice, associated with hard labor and low returns. However, government initiatives and the growing influence of technology are changing this narrative, making agriculture a viable and attractive option for the youth.
Programs like the Kenya Youth Agribusiness Strategy (2018-2022) and the “Young Farmers Program” have been instrumental in shifting the perception of agriculture. These initiatives offer young people practical training in modern farming techniques, such as greenhouse farming, aquaculture, and mechanization. By emphasizing value addition,turning raw agricultural products into more profitable goods like processed foods and packaged vegetables,these programs are helping youth to see agriculture not just as farming, but as a full-fledged business opportunity.
Access to technology has also played a crucial role in this shift. Digital tools have allowed young farmers to receive training on best practices, market information, and climate-resilient farming techniques. The use of mobile apps, for example, allows farmers to connect with buyers, access weather forecasts, and learn about pest control, thereby increasing productivity. Youth have increasingly embraced these technological innovations, which are seen as a way to overcome the challenges of farming in a rapidly changing climate. Mobile-based solutions have also enabled young farmers to access financing and market their products more effectively.
In addition to technology, many young farmers are also benefiting from financial support through grants and microfinance programs aimed at reducing the barriers to entry in agriculture. These programs provide access to low-interest loans, seed capital, and, in some cases, subsidies for purchasing equipment like irrigation systems or greenhouses. This support is particularly crucial for those who may not have the financial resources to purchase land or modern equipment upfront. By improving access to these resources, these initiatives help to foster entrepreneurship and allow young people to build sustainable agricultural enterprises.
The impact of these programs is evident in various counties across Kenya, where youth are increasingly seen taking up agricultural activities such as growing drought-resistant crops, poultry farming, and even fish farming. Young people are now finding success in these ventures, thanks to the combination of training, technology, and financial support. Many are also forming cooperatives and community-based groups to pool resources and share knowledge. These groups help farmers access bulk purchasing power, create a stronger market presence, and improve overall profitability.
Despite these successes, challenges remain. Land access is still a significant issue, as most young people cannot afford to buy land in rural areas. Traditional land inheritance systems and lack of land tenure make it difficult for young farmers to secure a plot. Additionally, climate change poses an ongoing threat to agricultural productivity, especially for crops that are highly sensitive to weather patterns. While some efforts have been made to provide drought-resistant crop varieties, the unpredictable climate remains a key hurdle.
To overcome these barriers, more robust policies are needed to support land access and provide financial products tailored to the needs of young farmers.