Rising leaders: How youth are shaping food systems in Kenya

On August 12, 2024, as part of the World Food Forum's (WFF) marathon of events commemorating International Youth Day, a group of passionate young leaders from across Kenya came together at the Pre-Local Conference of Youth (Pre-LCOY). Organized under the theme "Empowering Kenyan Youth for Sustainable Food Systems and Climate Action," the hybrid event provided a vital platform for young voices to contribute to the global discourse on food systems transformation. Among the event’s key organizers were three alumni from the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub’s Youth Leadership Program (YLP).

From left to right: YLP alumni Ruth Magak, Elizabeth Mwende and Shadrack Agaki

The role of youth in food systems transformation

Food systems transformation is key to solving pressing challenges of the current global climate crisis. Responsible for about one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, collectively focusing on this sector can unlock powerful ways to work on multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In Kenya, where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, food systems transformation can be particularly useful for lifting millions out of poverty while safeguarding the future of food.  That’s why Kenya’s youth—energetic, innovative, and aware of the urgency—are stepping up to lead sustainable solutions.

"Young people are uniquely positioned to drive change because we are adaptable and innovative," said Elizabeth Mwende, a YLP alumna and one of the event’s lead organizers. Elizabeth helped coordinate the food systems sub-committee for the event, ensuring that diverse perspectives were represented. "This event was about more than just dialogue; it was about equipping young people with the knowledge and tools to take informed, actionable steps towards fixing our broken food systems," she emphasized.

The event featured workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, empowering youth to see themselves as integral to the solutions. Keynote speakers, including Ms. Priscilla Muiruri, Co-chair of the Inter-Ministerial Food Systems Technical Working Group and Technical Advisor to Kenya’s National Convenor, and Stefanos Fotiou, Director of the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub, highlighted the vital role of youth-led initiatives in driving change.

A platform for youth voices

Pre-LCOY Kenya 2024 emphasized collaboration and the exchange of ideas. "The event accelerated the conversation on the need for a systems approach to food systems transformation," remarked Shadrack Agaki, another YLP alumnus and event organizer. Shadrack, who served as both a speaker and a planning team member, stressed that every young person, regardless of their background, has something valuable to contribute to this cause.

The event also underscored the importance of youth voices in critical conversations. "The presence of influential speakers, like the Technical Advisor to the Food Systems National Convenor, highlighted the seriousness of our discussions and recognized that youth voices are crucial in these dialogues," Shadrack noted.

Elizabeth, Shadrack and Ruth speaking with Priscilla Muiruri, representative of the Food Systems National Convenor of Kenya.

Building a social movement

For many, Pre-LCOY Kenya 2024 was more than just an event—it was the start of a social movement. Ruth Magak, who served as both a moderator and stakeholder mapper, observed that the event empowered young leaders to take ownership of the issues affecting their communities. "Seeing the enthusiasm and commitment of the participants was incredibly inspiring," she said. "It showed that when young people are given the platform, they are ready and able to drive change."

During her moderation, Ruth emphasized the importance of documentation as a key piece of advice to participants. "Documenting the journey, lessons, challenges, and best practices is crucial because it’s what shapes direction and informs the future," she explained.

Pre-LCOY Kenya 2024 workshop participants.

How the Hub’s YLP prepared the alumni

The alumni highlighted the YLP programme as instrumental in preparing them to tackle the challenges of organizing Pre-LCOY Kenya 2024. Through the program, they gained vital leadership, systems thinking, and policy advocacy skills, which proved essential in managing the complexities of the event and driving its success.

"The YLP program significantly enhanced my credibility in the food systems and climate change space, making it easier to engage with various ministries and organizations," Shadrack shared. Similarly, Elizabeth reflected on how the YLP helped her develop resilience and effective team management skills. "The program taught me how to manage a complex team with diverse needs and to craft an event that catered to different aspects of food systems," she said. Ruth also credited the YLP for refining her communication skills, which were vital in her role as a moderator. "The YLP prepared me to engage stakeholders effectively and facilitate impactful discussions," she added.

This preparation was further backed by the Hub, which provided financial and technical support. In two different sessions, participants had the chance to virtually interact with Hub Director, Stefanos Fotiou, and Technical Officer, Nicole DePaula, who reinforced the importance of youth inclusion in accelerating the implementation of national pathways for food systems transformation.

The path forward

The momentum from Pre-LCOY Kenya 2024 continues, with follow-up activities planned. The young leaders are now part of a growing network committed to transforming Kenya’s food systems. Elizabeth, Shadrack, and Ruth are already involved in planning the formalization of the WFF National Chapter for Kenya, ensuring that the voices and ideas from the event continue to influence policy discussions and actions closer to the people. The outcomes of Pre-LCOY Kenya will be presented as the National Youth Statement during LCOY and WFF, further amplifying youth influence on food systems policies.

Their advice to other young leaders is clear: collaborate, stay informed, and never underestimate the power of small beginnings. “The leadership journey always has challenges along the way. Stay steadfast, advocate for your ideas and don’t give up easily," Elizabeth concluded.