World Food Forum Ghana National Chapter’s Chairperson, Anthony Aidoo has impelled African youth to create their own spaces to lead the change they want to see in agrifood systems.
Speaking at the World Food Forum Africa Side Event during the WFF Flagship Programme in Rome, Mr. Aidoo stated that, generally, there are leadership issues on the continent, spanning from the government level to every institution. “Presidents often refuse to leave power when their terms end, and CEOs and others frequently resist retirement when it is due.”
According to him, this has resulted in limited spaces for young minds in getting the chance to lead in transforming the system, which is a major problem in Africa. “This issue may also relate to food systems leadership, where young people lack opportunities to assume leadership roles before structural reforms keep the older generation in control. Therefore, young people are underrepresented, and this presents a problem.”
He emphasised that the only solution is for young people is to create their own spaces to lead the change they want to see within agrifood systems. “This is essential to mobilize youth to transform the continent’s food systems. If we are not called to the table, we must create our own table and give them a chair at it to start the discussion” he added.