WITH the agricultural sector seen as an epicentre of growth and development across Africa, many (myself included) have argued that it needs to attract young talent in order to maximise its potential. Some agricultural leaders and policy makers have placed the blame on young people, arguing that the youth show little interest in the sector — they want sophisticated office jobs. On face value, this is believable.In the past few months, however, I have met a number of young people who are motivated and interested in joining the agricultural sector. All of them asked the same questions: where do we start? Is there a possibility we can access productive land and some mentorship?What are the possible funding and financing methods?Some have already started small operations and are now struggling to join the formal market.These questions arise because we have not clearly articulated the path for young people who are interested in joining the sector. For agricultural professionals, though, t...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.