Dakar, Senegal – A new generation of farmers is reshaping African agriculture, using technology and climate-smart practices to increase productivity and combat the effects of climate change. This shift is being led by young people and women, who are adopting innovative techniques to secure food and create new economic opportunities.

The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) and the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) are supporting this movement by introducing improved maize and wheat varieties. These new crops are more resilient to diseases and drought, helping to build a more sustainable food system.

In an interview on the sidelines of the Africa Food Systems Forum in Dakar, Bram Govaerts, Director General of CIMMYT, emphasized the critical role of these new farming demographics. “The future of African agriculture lies in the hands of its youth and women,” Govaerts stated. He added that empowering them with better tools and knowledge is essential for building a resilient food system that can withstand the challenges of climate change.

The collaboration between CIMMYT and AGRA is a key part of this effort. By providing access to high-yielding, climate-resilient crop varieties, the organizations are helping to boost food security and create jobs. This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.