Nairobi, Kenya – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has called on African governments to place young people at the center of land governance, environmental conservation, and climate change strategies, describing them as the “pillar and decisive card” for sustainable agriculture and food systems on the continent.

The appeal was made during the 2nd Post-COP Workshop on Customary Tenure Rights and Agroecology, held in Nairobi from October 2–3, 2025.

Why Youth Matter

Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with more than 75 percent under the age of 35. At the same time, agriculture remains the backbone of livelihoods, employing over half of the continent’s youth. Yet, many young people remain excluded from secure land ownership and decision-making processes.

According to FAO, climate change has already reduced Africa’s agricultural productivity by 34 percent. Without youth inclusion, the continent risks losing both its food security and its ability to adapt to worsening climate shocks.

Voices from the Workshop

FAO Kenya’s team lead for Land Governance and Social Inclusion, Husna Mbarak, emphasized that youth participation is not optional but essential:

“The biggest challenge for young people has been lack of land ownership. Through lease agreements, however, they can access and develop land. It is time African countries move from endless dialogue to concrete action, guided by the lived experiences of communities.”

The workshop aimed to produce a strategic roadmap and position paper highlighting youth land rights as critical for combating land degradation, strengthening resilience, and advancing climate-friendly food systems.

The Way Forward

FAO and its partners are pushing for:

• Secure land tenure for youth, especially under customary systems.
• Policy reforms that prioritize youth access to land, finance, and markets.
• Agroecological practices that align with climate adaptation and biodiversity protection.
• Youth-led innovation in sustainable farming and pastoral systems.

Agrifocus Africa Insight

The message is clear: Africa’s future food security depends on empowering its youth. By ensuring access to land and involving them in climate action, the continent can unlock a generation of innovators ready to transform agriculture into a resilient, sustainable sector.

Source: The Citizen – FAO calls for African youth inclusion in land and climate agenda