Youth Resilience in Agriculture Amid Climate Change in Ghana

A study in Ghana demonstrates that despite climate change challenges, youth show resilience in agriculture. With high youth unemployment and underemployment rates, farming is viewed as a key opportunity. The study finds that adverse weather does not deter participation, with positive emotions and technology enhancing interest. Recommendations include marketing agriculture as a modern career and creating training centers to engage more young farmers.

A recent study conducted in Ghana highlights the unexpected resilience of young individuals toward agricultural practices, despite the ongoing challenges posed by climate change. With a staggering youth unemployment rate of 13.9% and over half of the population underemployed, agriculture emerges as a viable opportunity. As the average age of farmers in the region approaches 55 years, young Ghanaians are stepping up to fill the gap.

The research, which surveyed 511 young Ghanaians, indicates that natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and extreme heat do not significantly deter youth participation in agriculture. Notably, the study reveals that positive sentiments surrounding climate change, along with the adoption of innovative technologies, enhance interest among the youth, with 76.7% expressing a preference for farming.

Additionally, urban youth and their access to land play crucial roles in fostering engagement in agriculture. To appeal to a tech-savvy generation, the study recommends reframing agriculture as a modern career path and establishing specialized training centers. This approach could effectively attract and encourage more young farmers to enter the field, ensuring a sustainable future for agriculture in Ghana.

The findings of the study underscore the resilience and potential of Ghana’s youth in the agricultural sector, despite adverse climate events. By embracing technology and fostering a positive image of farming, there exists a significant opportunity to mitigate unemployment and attract young individuals to agriculture. Establishing training programs could facilitate this transition, leading to a more sustainable agricultural landscape in Ghana.

Original Source: www.africa.com