In a world where misconceptions often cloud our understanding of various fields, agriculture remains one of the most misunderstood sectors. Many still believe that farming and agribusiness are solely for the elderly or those living in rural areas. However, Philip Agbodjah Adinurigy, the organizer of the Youth Agri-preneur Forum (YAF), is on a mission to change this narrative and empower young people to see agriculture as a viable and exciting career path.
Speaking on Radio Univers with the host of Talking Business, Sarah Etiemo, Agbodjah addressed the need to dismantle the stigma surrounding agriculture.
“There’s this kind of stigma around agriculture where people think it’s for the aged and people who live in maybe the rural areas. But no, you can be in the city and be an agriculturist or a farmer. We have to channel more of our energy into changing the narrative and making agriculture look sexy again,” he explained.
He was of the belief, the reason for this erroneous fallacy is that most people don’t have the right information about what agriculture actually entails
“Agriculture transcends beyond just being on the field every day.There’s more to it. It is not just a profession; it is the backbone of Ghana’s economy and plays a crucial role across Africa. With the rising unemployment rates among young people, agriculture can be that space where everybody can find work to do.
Agbodjah also emphasized that agriculture provides ample job opportunities. “Fields such as animal production are particularly lucrative, as they often lead to high yields and profitability. Animals are prolific; they breed and produce offspring, creating significant value,” he noted.
Moreover, Philip drew parallels between agriculture and other industries, such as fashion, highlighting that even in fashion, fibers from plants are integral. “Whatever it is you’re doing, you can always find a link to agribusiness,” he explained.
However, he cautioned that interests and passions cannot be forced upon individuals; they must be nurtured through engagement and exposure to experienced farmers.
In a modern economy where technology and investment are key, Agbodjah highlighted that agribusiness offers tangible opportunities for investment. He contrasted it with cryptocurrency, stating, “Crypto involves investments where you cannot see the assets, but in agribusiness, you can actually see the assets and witness their journey from your end to the market and vice versa.”
The Youth Agri-preneur Forum stands as a beacon of hope for young individuals seeking to explore the vast opportunities within agriculture. By breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions, YAF encourages a new generation of innovators and entrepreneurs to step into the agricultural space. As Agbodjah aptly puts it, “Anyone at all can do agriculture.” The time has come for youth across urban and rural landscapes to embrace agriculture not just as a career choice but as a pathway to innovation, sustainability, and economic empowerment.
Story By: Fauzia Salim/Univers.ug.edu.gh
