Zambia’s Minister of Agriculture has called for a strategic shift toward youth-centred investments in agriculture, emphasizing the sector’s potential to combat rising unemployment and unlock economic opportunities for the country’s growing young population.

With over 64% of Zambia’s working-age population under the age of 35, the minister stressed that agriculture must evolve into a dynamic and inclusive space where young people can thrive—not just as laborers, but as entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders. Speaking at the recent Youth in Agrifood Systems Governance Workshop in Lusaka, the minister highlighted the urgency of integrating youth into every stage of the agricultural value chain—from production and processing to marketing and policy-making.

The workshop, co-hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), brought together young agripreneurs, government officials, and development partners to explore solutions for youth engagement. The event underscored the need for inclusive governance, access to finance, digital tools, and training programs tailored to young farmers and agribusiness owners.

According to recent data, 56% of Zambia’s labor force consists of youth, yet many face barriers such as limited land access, inadequate financing, and outdated perceptions of farming as a low-status occupation. The minister argued that reversing these trends requires targeted policies and public-private partnerships that make agriculture attractive and viable for the next generation.

The call aligns with broader efforts to transform Zambia’s agrifood systems into engines of growth and resilience. As climate pressures mount and urban migration accelerates, empowering youth in agriculture is not just a development priority—it’s a national imperative.