To encourage young people in Africa to develop interest in agriculture, the African Development Bank (AfDB) and its partners have instituted the Agri-Pitch Entrepreneurship competition for youths aged 18 to 35 years, in the sector to pitch their innovations.

The AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina said it was to encourage youths with brilliant ideas to embrace agriculture that the bank introduced Agripreneurs. He noted that there are opportunities to empower the youth at each stage of the agricultural value chain as ‘agripreneurs’. “Young people are doing new and amazing things in the agricultural space all over the continent but need to be motivated.”

According to him, in a talent show style, 10 presenters showcased brilliant ideas that have been turned into innovative solutions to address community needs across Africa. The top 10 competitors chosen from among hundreds of proposals will be invited to present their proposals and receive awards during a session titled “Agriculture is Cool: Engaging Africa’s Youth” at the annual African heads of states meeting facilitated by AfDB. In partnership with the African Development Institute, AfDB will also send the winners to Korea for a study visit.

By Pita Ochai