Youth are interested in farming—how can we enable participation?

Pragya Acholia, Duncan Adera, Janeth Amwoma, Justin Kinyera, Digafe Tufa Maru, Alina Ojha

SECTOR

Agriculture

PROJECT TYPE

Qualitative participatory design

DOI

https://doi.org/10.62372/FJGD9378

Location

Uganda | Ethiopia | Burundi

BEHAVIORAL THEME

Present bias and Social proof

OVERVIEW

Youth engagement in agriculture is not driven by lack of interest but by unfavorable conditions. This study across Uganda, Ethiopia, and Burundi shows that young people reject agriculture under current constraints such as risk, stigma, and limited opportunities. It finds that reframing agriculture, providing social proof of success, and addressing household and structural barriers can increase participation.

Research Questions

What conditions shape youth decisions to engage or disengage from agriculture?
What behavioral and structural barriers limit youth participation?
Which interventions can make agriculture more attractive and viable for young people?

Methods

The study combined a desk review with qualitative research across Uganda, Ethiopia, and Burundi. Data was collected through focus group discussions and interviews with youth, parents, nursery managers, and household heads. Co-design sessions with youth and households were used to identify problems, generate solutions, and prioritize interventions.

THEMATIC AREAS

Key Findings

Youth are interested in agriculture but perceive it as risky, slow, and stigmatized.
Engagement is shaped more by structural and social conditions than by motivation alone.
Social proof and visible success stories can shift perceptions and increase participation.
Household dynamics, including decision-making power and hierarchies, influence youth involvement.
Income uncertainty discourages participation, pushing youth toward alternative livelihoods.
Gender-specific barriers, including time poverty and limited decision-making power, affect participation.

Implications for Policy or Development

Programs should address structural barriers such as income uncertainty, access to resources, and household dynamics.
Agriculture should be reframed as part of diversified livelihoods, combining short-term and long-term income opportunities.
Interventions should include social proof, peer networks, and hands-on learning to shift perceptions.
Policies should expand youth-friendly financing, improve land access, and strengthen market systems.
Gender-responsive approaches are needed to address constraints faced by young women.