Young farmers, entrepreneurs and policymakers gathered in Kiambu County on 30 June, 2026 for the First Mt. Kenya Youth in Agrifood Systems Dialogue, bringing often-overlooked voices to the forefront of discussions on shaping Kenya’s agricultural future.
The meeting formed part of a wider national effort to gather ideas ahead of the Youth in Agrifood Systems Summit 2026. Organizers said the goal was simple: Listen to young people and let them shape the future of Kenya’s food systems.
Across the Mt. Kenya region, agriculture remains a backbone of local economies. Yet many young people say they struggle to find space within it.
“Young people are not only beneficiaries of agrifood policies,” said Lorrein Kabaka, founder of Project Shambani. “They are innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders. This dialogue gave them a chance to shape the decisions that affect their future.”
Throughout the day, discussions moved between policy, lived experience and practical solutions. Participants spoke candidly about barriers they face from limited access to land and finance to the rising costs of production and climate pressures.
In smaller breakout sessions, young agripreneurs shared stories of building businesses from the ground up. Some spoke of success in value addition and digital agriculture. Others described the challenges of reaching markets or securing investment.
Kamau, a convener of the dialogue and chairman of Wingfarm, said the issues raised were not new but the urgency was growing.
“Young people are already leading innovation across agriculture and food value chains,” he said. “But they continue to face barriers. This forum created space for honest discussion and, more importantly, for commitments.”
Officials and development partners in attendance acknowledged the gaps. Some pointed to existing policies designed to support youth in agriculture, while admitting that implementation often falls short.
The conversations were structured but open. Participants examined current policies, identified weaknesses and proposed changes. They also mapped out priorities from improving access to markets and technology to building resilience against climate shocks.
By the end of the day, organisers said the dialogue had produced a set of practical recommendations. These will feed into regional reports and, ultimately, the national summit.
Behind the formal sessions was a broader shift. For years, young people have been encouraged to see agriculture as an opportunity. In Kiambu, many made clear they no longer want to be encouraged, they want to be included.
Whether those voices will shape policy remains to be seen. But for a few hours in Kiambu, they set the agenda.
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