Kigali, Rwanda- September 30-October 2, 2025-Rwanda played host to the 6th Eastern Africa Farmers Convention, Congress and Exhibition that took place at Kigali Serena Hotel, gathering over 200 delegates, 20 exhibitors, and leading agricultural players in Africa, all under the theme: "Towards More Sustainable Food and Farming Systems".
The platform availed by the congress was unique among farmers, policymakers, youth, and development partners to share views and create partnerships to explore possible solutions to transform the agriculture sector in Africa into an inclusive and sustainable sector.
As a member of the Eastern Africa Farmers Federation, the Rwanda Youth in Agribusiness Forum (RYAF), which is the leading youth agribusiness movement in Rwanda, emerged as the voice of young farmers shaping the continent's agricultural future.
On Day Two, RYAF Chairperson Sakina Usengimana imparted an important lesson to participants with the statement that young people are the backbone of East Africa's food system and comprise about 60 percent of the region's population.
She emphasized RYAF's commitment since 2016 to give young agripreneurs knowledge, networks, and opportunities to succeed. She accentuated the impact of mentorship and role models in inspiring more youth and women, the urgency of policies that open up access to land and cheap financing, the importance of partnerships with governments, and development partners, and EAFF, and how innovation and agribusiness are modernizing and appealing to farming. Appreciation was given to the Rwandan government and EAFF for championing youth inclusion, with a call for intensified collaboration in ensuring that the future of farming is youth-driven, innovative, and inclusive.
According to opening remarks from Hon. Minister Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe of the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, "this is an opportunity to convert ideas into action and ensure that the partnerships have meaningful benefits to the farmer".
Africa's sovereignty is major undermined by the annual $70 billion food import bill, EAFF President Elizabeth Nsimadala warns. She urges all actors to invest more in strengthening agri-food systems.
Minister of State, Dr. Telesphore Ndabamenye, emphasized that discussions under the event’s theme underscored the urgent need to transform agriculture in response to climate change, shifting food trade dynamics and evolving market demands.
He added that the legacy of this congress will be defined by a shared commitment to action-scaling climate-resilient practices, strengthening farmer organizations, deepening regional collaboration, and making agriculture a rewarding investment for farmers and communities.
This East Africa Farmers Congress and Convention was not only a conference, but it was a great step to mould resilient, inclusive, and innovative farming systems in the region. With Rwanda as host, the event became a testament to the strength of collaboration in food security, creating jobs, and building prosperity among Africa's farmers.
RYAF Communication Team