In Iringa, Tanzania, excitement buzzed as 80 participants gathered for an impactful training session under AGRA’s Youth Entrepreneurship for the Future of Food and Agriculture (YEFFA) program. Supported by the Mastercard Foundation and implemented by SAGCOT, YEFFA is led by a consortium that includes the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) alongside partners from various organizations. This initiative aims to uplift youth employment by enhancing nutrition and adding value to agriculture, with a focus on maize, horticultural crops, sunflowers, and rice.
Among the diverse participants were six dynamic youths, each accompanied by their under-five children. This aspect of the training highlighted the importance of nurturing the next generation while empowering young parents with the knowledge to improve their families’ health and livelihoods.
The day commenced with a warm welcome from the GAIN team, who spoke passionately about the significance of nutrition in combating hunger and malnutrition. Participants listened attentively as experts shared insights into the nutritional benefits of locally grown crops and innovative methods for adding value to their produce. The training was interactive, featuring hands-on demonstrations and engaging discussions. Participants learned about various techniques, including post-harvest handling, processing methods, and market strategies.
A key highlight was a dedicated field visit to two companies—Ruaha Mills Co. and GIBBRI AgroSolutions Ltd. (under the brand name Eatfresh)—where participants learned about maize fortification technology and the processing of avocados, including how to extract oil from them.
The presence of children added a unique dimension to the meeting. Their laughter and curiosity reminded us of the ultimate goal: to create a healthier future for the next generation.
As the training concluded, many participants expressed gratitude for the knowledge gained and the connections made. The YEFFA Project meeting in Iringa proved more than a training session—it was a celebration of youth collaboration and a shared commitment to creating job opportunities for themselves and, most importantly, opportunities for their peers while advancing nutrition and agriculture.