A new FAO report, The Status of Youth in Agrifood Systems, spotlights the transformative potential of 1.3 billion young people aged 15–24 to reshape global agriculture. For South Africa, where farming remains central to rural livelihoods and national food security, these insights offer both opportunity and urgency.

With 85% of the world’s youth residing in low- and lower-middle-income countries—including South Africa—the report finds that deeper youth integration into agrifood systems could inject up to $1 trillion into the global economy. For South Africa, that economic promise hinges on equipping young people to lead agricultural enterprises in a sector still grappling with an ageing workforce and widening rural-urban divide.

Currently, 44% of working youth worldwide rely on agrifood systems for employment—surpassing adult participation levels. Yet in South Africa, rising urbanisation and limited career appeal threaten to pull youth away from agriculture, at a time when their contributions are needed most.

Food Insecurity and Employment: A Dual Crisis

The FAO study flags a concerning rise in food insecurity among youth, climbing from 16.7% to 24.4% in under a decade—with African youth disproportionately affected. South Africa’s persistent youth unemployment, exceeding 60%, compounds this crisis and underscores the importance of food systems as a lever for inclusive economic growth.

More than 20% of global youth are not engaged in employment, education, or training—with young women doubly impacted. Addressing this challenge, especially within the 20–24 age group, could raise global GDP by 1.4%, with agrifood systems contributing nearly half of that growth.

A Path Forward: Inclusion, Investment, Resilience

The report advocates for targeted interventions that strengthen youth agency, improve access to training and finance, and raise farm and off-farm productivity. These recommendations hold particular relevance for South Africa, where barriers to land access and credit prevent many young aspirants from entering the sector.

Strategic investment in rural infrastructure and market access could unlock high-potential agricultural zones where many South African youth reside—creating conditions for innovation, job creation, and resilience. As climate extremes intensify, these efforts must also incorporate adaptive strategies to protect young farmers and rural livelihoods.

Charting a Future for Youth in Agriculture

Ultimately, the report frames youth not just as participants—but as pivotal architects of agrifood transformation. For South Africa, embracing this paradigm means treating young people as co-creators of a sustainable agricultural future—one that tackles poverty, enhances food sovereignty, and reshapes the rural economy.