Youth in Agrifood Systems Workshop Concludes with Call for Inclusive Governance in Lusaka
Youth involved in agrifood systems came together to explore and develop strategies for enhancing youth engagement across the entire food system
FAO 2025
29/05/2025
A two-day Youth in Agrifood Systems Governance Workshop concluded this afternoon in Lusaka with a strong call to advance youth-inclusive policies and governance in Zambia’s agrifood systems.
Organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Lusaka City Council and ICLEI Africa – Local Governments for Sustainability, the workshop ran from 28 to 29 May 2025 under the theme “Promoting Youth Entrepreneurship Across Agrifood Systems.” It brought together young agripreneurs, city authorities, government representatives, civil society, and development partners to collectively explore ways to strengthen youth engagement across food systems.
The workshop addressed key barriers to youth participation, including limited access to finance, weak institutional linkages, and inadequate capacity development opportunities. Participants engaged in technical discussions, policy dialogues, and breakout sessions focused on identifying structural challenges and designing practical solutions to promote youth-led agribusiness and innovation.
Stakeholders also collaborated in drafting a youth-centred action plan tailored to the Lusaka context. The plan will serve as a roadmap to guide investments, strengthen linkages with local authorities, and improve support mechanisms for young people working across the agrifood value chain.
This initiative is part of a broader programme by FAO to enhance youth participation in food systems governance in both Lusaka and Livingstone districts. It aligns with FAO’s Country Programming Framework (2023–2027) and supports national priorities aimed at promoting employment, innovation, and resilience in the agriculture sector.
Insights and recommendations from the workshop will be compiled into a comprehensive report to guide policy advocacy and programmatic interventions at local and national levels, ensuring that Zambia’s youth are positioned as key drivers of food system transformation.