The vibrant city of Kampala is set to host Africa’s premier youth-focused agricultural technology event, the AYuTe NextGen Conference, from June 17 to 19, 2025. Organised by Heifer International, this annual gathering has evolved into a pivotal platform for propelling youth-led agricultural innovation across the continent. The event will convene a diverse group of stakeholders, including young agri-tech innovators, investors, policymakers, and development partners, all united by a common goal: transforming Africa’s food systems through technology-driven solutions.
This year’s conference, themed “AgTech Generation Rising,” highlights the indispensable role of young entrepreneurs in revolutionising African agriculture. The event follows a rigorous selection process that saw over 100 applicants from 10 African countries vie for a spot in the finals. Eleven outstanding finalists, selected after intensive technical assessments in Lagos and Nairobi, will present their groundbreaking innovations live in Kampala. These innovations range from drone-enabled agricultural services to AI-powered decision-support tools and climate-smart technologies, all designed to tackle pressing challenges in African agriculture.
What sets the AYuTe NextGen Conference apart is its unwavering focus on youth. Every aspect of the three-day event, from keynote sessions to panel discussions and breakout workshops, will be led by young people. This structure not only empowers youth but also ensures that their voices and ideas are at the forefront of the conversation. The agenda is packed with interactive forums, fireside chats, and investor engagement sessions, all aimed at fostering tangible partnerships and scaling innovative solutions.
The implications of this event are far-reaching. By providing a platform for young innovators to showcase their ideas and connect with investors and policymakers, the conference is helping to bridge the gap between innovation and implementation. This is crucial for addressing the myriad challenges facing African agriculture, from climate change to food insecurity. Moreover, the event underscores the importance of investing in youth-led solutions, which are often more attuned to the needs and realities of local communities.
The AYuTe NextGen Conference is not just about identifying promising innovations; it is about building an ecosystem that supports sustained growth and impact. This is evident in the success stories of past participants, such as Uganda’s Assumpta Nakalema, whose solar-powered egg incubator has helped poultry farmers reduce post-harvest losses and energy costs. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of youth-led innovation and the critical role of platforms like AYuTe NextGen in nurturing and scaling such solutions.
As the continent grapples with the urgent need to transform its food systems, events like the AYuTe NextGen Conference offer a beacon of hope. They demonstrate the immense potential of Africa’s youth to drive change and innovation in agriculture. By supporting these young innovators, we are not just investing in their futures but also securing the future of African agriculture. The call to action is clear: it is time for investors, policymakers, and funders to rally behind this movement and co-create an inclusive, resilient food future for Africa.