Agriculture in Zambia has long been viewed through a narrow lens—an occupation for the elderly or a fallback plan for those nearing retirement. But as the country grapples with youth unemployment and economic pressures, experts are pushing for a fundamental shift in perception, framing farming not as a last resort but as a dynamic sector brimming with untapped opportunities for innovation, employment, and wealth creation.
At a recent forum co-hosted by Mukuba University and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA-Zambia), stakeholders gathered to dissect the challenges and potential solutions to modernizing the sector. Speaking at the Southern Africa Research and Administration Hub (SARAH) in Lusaka, Dr. David Chikoye, IITA’s Southern Africa Director, underscored the urgent need for universities to overhaul their agriculture curricula. The key, he argued, lies in integrating information and communication technology (ICT), fostering ties with innovation hubs, and ensuring students have access to financial support—elements currently missing in traditional agricultural education.
“Agriculture is no longer just about hoes and oxen,” Dr. Chikoye remarked. “With their energy, digital fluency, and openness to technology, young people are uniquely positioned to transform this sector into a modern, profitable industry.” His comments reflect a growing consensus among agronomists and economists: Zambia’s agricultural future hinges on attracting youth, not just as laborers, but as entrepreneurs and innovators capable of leveraging technology to boost productivity and profitability.
The current disconnect between education and industry needs is a critical hurdle. Many agriculture graduates enter the job market with theoretical knowledge but lack practical skills in agribusiness management, digital farming tools, or access to capital. By aligning university programs with real-world demands—such as precision farming, agro-processing, and e-commerce platforms—educators can bridge this gap, making agriculture a viable and appealing career path.
Beyond curriculum reform, financial accessibility remains a stumbling block. Young farmers often struggle to secure loans or invest in modern equipment, perpetuating the cycle of subsistence farming. Dr. Chikoye’s call for integrated financial support—whether through government-backed loans, private-sector partnerships, or agri-tech incubators—highlights the need for a holistic approach to youth engagement in agriculture.
The implications of this shift extend beyond individual farmers. A youth-driven agricultural sector could accelerate Zambia’s economic diversification, reduce reliance on copper mining, and improve food security. With over 60% of the population under 25, harnessing this demographic dividend could position Zambia as a regional leader in agri-innovation, provided the right policies and investments are in place.
For now, the ball is in the court of educational institutions, policymakers, and financial stakeholders. The question is no longer *whether* agriculture can be a youthful, tech-savvy industry, but *how quickly* Zambia can adapt to make it one.