Do millennials hold the key to Africa's farming future | The Stream

Africa has vast areas of as-yet untapped land that, if cultivated, could dramatically alter countries' economic prospects and fulfil the continent's promise as the breadbasket of the world. But it needs millions of young Africans to choose agriculture as a career. That's why Nigerian singer-songwriter Mr Eazi and award-winning choreographer Sherrie Silver are spearheading the 'Our Future Is Here' campaign under the hashtag #DanceForChange to show millennials that 'agripreneurship' can be lucrative as well as socially responsible. About 60 percent of Africa's population is under the age of 25 and youth unemployment is stubbornly high. Growing numbers of young people are tentatively looking beyond the traditional allure of urban white-collar jobs in favour of careers in agribusiness, but governments remain concerned that farming is a job still largely practiced by older generations. Young people who have made the leap into farming are using technologies such as blockchain and mobile apps to secure funding, boost productivity and scale up their plots into burgeoning commercial enterprises. Governments hope their example will appeal to those considering agriculture as a stable and rewarding career path. The Stream will look at how young entrepreneurs are faring as they take their first steps in farming and consider how their work can help secure a prosperous and bountiful future for Africa. Join the conversation: TWITTER: FACEBOOK: Subscribe to our channel #aljazeeraenglish #ajstream #africa #farming