One of the greatest privileges at the 3rd Annual East African Guild Leaders Summit was contributing to the panel discussion on the future of agriculture and technology in East Africa.
My message was simple: East Africa does not have a youth problem—it has a systems problem.
For decades, our agricultural systems, financing models, and policies have not been intentionally designed with young people in mind. Yet today, the majority of East Africa's population is young. If our policies continue to serve yesterday's demographics, they cannot deliver tomorrow's prosperity.
Agriculture should no longer be viewed as subsistence farming. It is a powerful engine for innovation, enterprise, industrialization, food security, and regional trade. With the right investments in technology, research, digital infrastructure, access to finance, and skills development, young people can transform agriculture into one of the continent's most competitive sectors.
During the discussion, I called for:
Youth-centred agricultural policies that move beyond consultation to meaningful participation in decision-making.
Greater investment in agritech, research, and innovation led by young people.
Financing models that assess potential and ideas—not just collateral.
Universities that produce innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers rather than only job seekers.
Stronger collaboration between governments, academia, the private sector, and development partners to create an enabling environment for youth-led enterprises.
As Youth Senator for Murang'a County, I remain committed to championing policies that unlock opportunities for young people, strengthen regional integration, and build resilient economies driven by innovation and inclusive leadership.
The future of East Africa will not be determined by the resources beneath our feet, but by the opportunities we create for the young people who will lead it.
When we empower young people to innovate, we don't just grow food—we grow economies, create jobs, strengthen communities, and secure the future of our region.
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23 Julio 2026 à 19h29
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