Parents and guardians in Kilwa District Council, Lindi Region, have been urged to allocate land to youth, enabling them to engage in sesame and cashew nut farming. This initiative aims to uplift the economic status of young people by fostering their participation in agriculture.
Land ownership in Kilwa is primarily in the hands of parents, which has limited the youth’s ability to participate in farming. By allocating land, families can empower young farmers to cultivate sesame and cashew nuts two critical cash crops with significant economic potential. Education on modern agricultural practices and climate change adaptation is equally essential to ensure the success of this venture.
Kilwa faces climate-related challenges such as flooding and drought, making it vital to prepare young farmers for these realities. Experts in agriculture, climate change, natural resource management, and land use are being called upon to provide training to the youth, equipping them with the necessary skills to address these challenges. Financial and technical support is also needed to introduce modern farming techniques and tools that align with climate adaptation strategies.
The Kilwa Youth Development Initiatives (KIYODI) has launched a three-year strategic plan to guide its activities. This plan focuses on the economic, political, and social empowerment of youth, promoting gender equality, good governance, and accountability. In addition to agricultural development, it emphasizes environmental protection, food security, and institutional growth. The strategic plan aims to encourage young people to actively participate in decision-making processes and leadership roles within their communities.
To ensure a strong foundation for these efforts, KIYODI members are encouraged to conduct research to understand the economic situation, education levels, and specific needs of the youth across Kilwa’s wards. Tailored projects can then be initiated to address these needs effectively. For example, crops like sesame, cashews, and mangoes are recommended for their long-term financial benefits. Farmers are also advised to plant cashew trees alongside their main crops to diversify their income sources.
Youth are being urged to engage in leadership roles within Agricultural and Marketing Co-operatives Societies (AMCOS) and leverage their technological expertise to modernize these institutions. Joining these associations and taking on roles such as secretary can provide a platform for young people to influence decisions and improve agricultural practices.
Digital tools like the M-Kilimo App, introduced by the Kilwa District Council, are seen as vital for modernizing agriculture in the region. This platform connects farmers with buyers and offers agricultural business solutions, enabling them to secure local and international markets. Farmers are encouraged to register on the app, which simplifies marketing and digitizes farming operations.
Several farmers in Kilwa have already embraced this technology, using the app to promote and sell their produce. It has proven particularly beneficial for young people, who are more adept at using digital tools to enhance their productivity.
In addition to agriculture, KIYODI is fostering entrepreneurship among youth through initiatives like horticulture and motorcycle taxi businesses. These ventures provide alternative income sources and build resilience against economic uncertainties. The organization’s efforts have also focused on building confidence among youth to take on leadership roles, breaking traditional norms that reserved these positions for older individuals.
Community leaders have highlighted the importance of balancing gender-focused initiatives by addressing men’s rights and encouraging inclusive development. This approach ensures that both men and women benefit from empowerment programs and contribute equally to the community’s progress.
The strategic plan is also a call to action for the youth to tap into government programs and donor-funded opportunities to enhance their livelihoods. Creativity and innovation in leveraging technology are encouraged to improve agricultural productivity and access new markets. By embracing these opportunities, young farmers can transform their lives and become key contributors to the region’s economic development.
Ultimately, the success of these initiatives depends on collaboration between the youth, local authorities, and development partners. With comprehensive support, the youth of Kilwa can overcome challenges, harness the potential of their agricultural resources, and secure a prosperous future.
