Attending the World Food Forum 2024 in Italy was a transformative experience for RYAF member Christella Uwase, founder of Bountiful Farmers. Invited as a speaker, Christella proudly represented Rwanda, showcasing the country’s achievements in integrating technology into farming and voicing the aspirations of young Rwandan farmers. Speaking on a global stage dedicated to food security, sustainability, and innovation, she embraced both the honor and responsibility of advocating for impactful agricultural practices.
The discussions she participated in were not just theoretical but deeply resonant with my work in agribusiness. I was particularly moved by the session on Inclusive Agri-food Systems Innovation, themed “From Idea to Impact.” This session and others focusing on the future of agricultural innovation, precision, and sustainability provided critical insights into technology-driven solutions for food security and sustainable agriculture. These themes align perfectly with the initiatives I’m involved in, such as our automated irrigation systems in the sand-panic framework for seed multiplication.
One of the standout aspects of the forum was its focus on youth empowerment, women in agriculture, and climate-smart farming. The emphasis on equipping young people with the necessary tools and technology to drive agricultural innovation resonates deeply with Rwanda's efforts to cultivate a knowledge-based economy and support young agripreneurs. Furthermore, the discussions highlighted the need to empower women in agriculture by enhancing their access to resources. This reflects Rwanda’s commitment to gender equality and the promotion of women-led agribusinesses. The forum’s focus on climate-smart farming and sustainable practices also aligns seamlessly with Rwanda’s Green Growth Strategy, aiming to build resilient food systems in the face of climate change.
As a member of the Rwanda Youth in Agribusiness Forum (RYAF), I want to share a powerful message with young Rwandan agripreneurs: we have a unique and significant role in shaping the future of global food security and sustainable agricultural systems. Our generation is endowed with innovative ideas, energy, and access to technology elements critical for transforming the agricultural sector.
Christella Uwase. encourage young farmers to embrace technology, adopt sustainable practices, and explore new markets while remaining rooted in our local context. Together, we can drive meaningful change and contribute to a sustainable future for our communities and the world.
RYAF Communication Team