AfricasNext: Cultivating a New Generation of Agri-Innovators
Empowering African Youth,
Transforming Agriculture
At AfricasNext, we believe in the power of youth to revolutionize Africa's agricultural landscape. Focusing on several Global challenges we face, our mission is to empower young Africans with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to become leaders in sustainable agriculture and drive economic growth across the continent.
KEY GOALS
5,000+
youth trained in agribusiness skills
15
African countries active
500
successful agribusinesses launched
100,000
lives positively impacted
AfricasNext's Mission and the Sustainable Development Goals
Our mission directly addresses several critical global challenges outlined in the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted in 2015 as a universal call to action for a better world by 2030. Through our innovative approach to youth empowerment and agricultural transformation, AfricasNext contributes significantly to the following SDGs:
No Poverty
By equipping young Africans with agribusiness skills and opportunities, we're creating pathways out of poverty for thousands of individuals and their communities.
Decent Work & Economic Growth
By fostering youth entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector, we're creating decent jobs and driving economic growth in rural and peri-urban areas.
Zero Hunger
Our focus on modernizing agricultural practices and increasing productivity contributes directly to improved food security and nutrition across Africa.
Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
Our emphasis on agri-tech and innovation is helping to build resilient agricultural infrastructure and foster a culture of innovation among African youth.
Quality Education
The AgriYouth Champions program provides high-quality, practical education in modern agriculture and entrepreneurship, filling a critical gap in traditional educational systems.
Climate Action
By promoting sustainable and climate-smart agricultural practices, we're contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.
Moreover, our work indirectly supports several other SDGs, including:
SDG 5: Gender Equality, through our commitment to equal representation and empowerment of young women in agriculture
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by creating opportunities for marginalized rural youth
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through our collaborative approach with governments, businesses, and other organizations.
At AfricasNext, we believe that by empowering youth through agriculture, we can create a ripple effect of positive change, addressing multiple SDGs simultaneously. Our innovative model not only provides immediate benefits to our program participants but also contributes to long-term, sustainable development across Africa.
By 2030, we aim to have trained over 100,000 youth, launched 50,000 agribusinesses, and significantly contributed to increased agricultural productivity and food security in at least 20 African countries. Through these efforts, we're not just aligning with the SDGs – we're actively driving progress towards their achievement, ensuring that African youth are at the forefront of creating a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future for the continent.
Imagine Amina:
From Rural Farmer to Agri-Tech Entrepreneur
Amina, a 28-year-old from rural Nigeria, transforms her family's struggling farm into a thriving agri-tech business with support from AfricasNext. Through our Agri-Youth Champions program, Amina will gain skills in precision agriculture and farm management. Imagine her company, SmartFarm Nigeria, providing drone-based crop monitoring services to over 100 small-scale farmers, increasing yields by an average of 30%.
RECENT POSTS AND UPDATES
Welcome to the AfricasNext blog, your source for insights, updates, and inspiration from the frontlines of youth-led agricultural transformation in Africa. Here, we share stories of innovation, practical advice for aspiring agripreneurs, and thought leadership on the future of African agriculture.
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OUR STORY
AfricasNext was born out of a simple yet powerful idea: that Africa's youth hold the key to transforming the continent's agricultural sector. Founded by an entrepreneur, Chima Obinna in 2023, our organization emerged from their shared vision of an Africa, where young people view agriculture not as a last resort but as a field of innovation, opportunity, and prosperity…
Mission: "To empower African youth to become leaders in sustainable agriculture, driving innovation, economic growth, and food security across the continent."
Vision: "We envision an Africa where a new generation of young agri-innovators are at the forefront of a thriving, sustainable, and technologically advanced agricultural sector, ensuring prosperity for all."
Our Impact:
- Train over 5,000 youths in agribusiness skills
- Facilitate the launch of 500 youth-led agribusinesses
- Improve agricultural productivity by an average of 35% among program participants
- Create over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs in the agricultural value chain
- Establish partnerships with 50 universities and research institutions across Africa
OUR PROGRAM
At AfricasNext, we believe in a holistic approach to youth empowerment and agricultural transformation. Our programs are designed to equip young Africans with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to become leaders in sustainable agriculture. From hands-on training to innovation support and market access, our initiatives cover the entire spectrum of agribusiness development.
AgriYouth Champions
The AgriYouth Champions program is our flagship initiative, designed to transform passionate young Africans into skilled Agripreneurs. This intensive 6-month program combines theoretical learning with practical, hands-on experience in modern agricultural techniques and business management.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive curriculum covering sustainable farming practices, agribusiness management, and leadership skills
- Hands-on training at our model farms and partner agribusinesses
- Mentorship from experienced agricultural professionals and successful agripreneurs
- Access to seed funding and resources to launch agribusinesses
- Ongoing support and networking opportunities post-graduation
Eligibility:
- Age: 18-35 years
- Educational background: Minimum of secondary school completion
- Strong interest in agriculture and entrepreneurship
- Commitment to completing the full 6-month program
Application Process:
- Online application submission
- Screening and shortlisting of candidates
- Interview with AfricasNext team
- Final selection and enrollment
Farm to Market Initiative
The Farm to Market Initiative bridges the gap between small-scale farmers and lucrative markets. We provide training in post-harvest handling, quality control, and marketing, while also facilitating connections with buyers and exporters.
How it Works:
- Farmer Assessment: We evaluate current farming practices and market potential.
- Training: Farmers receive training in quality production, post-harvest handling, and basic marketing.
- Market Linkages: We connect farmers with reliable buyers, including supermarkets, exporters, and processors.
- Ongoing Support: Our team provides continuous guidance and problem-solving support.
Impact Goals:
- 10,000 small-scale farmers connected to stable markets
- Average income increase of 40% for participating farmers
- 30% reduction in post-harvest losses
- 5 major supply contracts secured with international buyers
Agri-Innovation Hub
The Agri-Innovation Hub is a state-of-the-art facility and program designed to nurture groundbreaking ideas in agriculture. We provide young innovators with the resources, mentorship, and connections they need to develop and scale their agricultural innovations.
Future Projects:
- Smart Irrigation System: A low-cost, solar-powered irrigation system that uses IoT sensors to optimize water usage.
- Blockchain for Traceability: A platform ensuring transparency and fair pricing in the coffee value chain.
- Vertical Farming Solutions: Space-efficient farming systems for urban areas, increasing food security in cities.
How to Get Involved:
- Apply for our incubation program
- Attend our quarterly innovation showcases
- Partner with us to implement innovations (for businesses and organizations)
FUTURE SUCCESS STORY
From Subsistence to Success:
Grace Akumu's Journey
Five years ago, Grace Akumu was a subsistence farmer struggling to feed her family in rural Uganda. Today, she's the proud owner of Akumu Organic Farms, a thriving business that supplies organic vegetables to high-end restaurants in Kampala.
Voices of AfricasNext
Welcome to 'Voices of AfricasNext', a podcast that amplifies the stories, insights, and innovations of young African agripreneurs. Join us as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and transformative ideas shaping the future of African agriculture.
Never miss an episode!
Subscribe to 'Voices of AfricasNext' on your favourite podcast platform
GET INVOLVED
At AfricasNext, we believe that transforming African agriculture is a collaborative effort. Whether you're a potential volunteer, partner, or donor, there are many ways to contribute to our mission of empowering young agripreneurs and driving sustainable agricultural development.
Lend your skills and passion to support Africa's next generation of agricultural leaders.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Mentorship
Guide and support young agripreneurs
Skills-based volunteering
Offer your expertise in areas like marketing, finance, or technology
Event support
Help organize and run our training programs and events
Content creation
Assist with blog writing, video production, or social media management
Requirements:
- Commitment to AfricasNext's mission and values
- Relevant skills or experience in agriculture, business, or related fields
- Ability to commit at least 5 hours per week for a minimum of 3 months
How to Apply:
Collaborate with AfricasNext to amplify our impact and create mutually beneficial opportunities.
Types of Partnerships:
- Corporate partners: Support our programs through funding, in-kind donations, or employee engagement initiatives
- Academic institutions: Collaborate on research, innovation, and training programs
- Government agencies: Work with us to implement youth-focused agricultural policies and initiatives
- NGOs and international organizations: Join forces to scale our impact across Africa
Benefits of Partnering:
- Contribute to sustainable development and youth empowerment in Africa
- Gain access to a network of innovative young agripreneurs and agricultural experts
- Enhance your organization's social impact and corporate social responsibility initiatives
- Co-create solutions to pressing agricultural challenges
CONTACT US
We'd love to hear from you! Whether you have a question about our programs, want to explore partnership opportunities, or simply want to share your thoughts, please don't hesitate to reach out.
+1 (301) 538-4165
info@AfricasNext.com
AfricasNext, Innovation Street.
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FAQ
To apply for the AgriYouth Champions program:
- Visit our website at www.africanext.com and navigate to the "Programs" section.
- Click on "AgriYouth Champions" and then "Apply Now."
- Fill out the online application form, providing details about your background, interests, and motivation.
- Submit any required documents (e.g., CV, academic records).
- If shortlisted, you'll be invited for an interview (virtual or in-person).
- Successful candidates will be notified via email with further instructions.
Applications are typically open 2-3 months before each cohort starts.
Follow our social media channels for announcements about application periods.
Yes, AfricasNext offers internship opportunities for students and recent graduates passionate about agritech, youth empowerment, and sustainable development. Our internships include:
- Summer internships (3 months, June-August
- Year-round internships (3-6 months, flexible start dates)
Internship areas include:
- Program Development and Implementation
- Agritech Research and Innovation
- Marketing and Communications
- Data Analysis and Impact Assessment
To apply for an internship, please send your CV and a cover letter to internships@africanext.com. We review applications on a rolling basis
We welcome partnerships that align with our mission of empowering African youth through agribusiness. Partnership opportunities include:
- Corporate Sponsorships: Support our programs financially or through in-kind contributions
- Technical Partnerships: Collaborate on agritech innovations or provide expertise
- Academic Partnerships: Work with us on research or curriculum development
- Government Partnerships: Implement youth empowerment initiatives in your region
To explore partnership opportunities, please email partnerships@africanext.comwith a brief description of your organization and proposed collaboration. Our partnerships team will respond within 5 business days
As of 2024, AfricasNext is in its pilot phase, focusing on:
- Imo State, Nigeria: Our first AgriYouth Champions program is being implemented here
We have plans to expand to:
- Two additional states in Nigeria by Q2 2025
- Ghana and Kenya by Q4 2025
Our long-term goal is to have a presence in at least 20 African countries by 2030. Follow our website and social media for updates on our expansion.
We appreciate your interest in supporting our mission! You can donate in several ways:
- Online: Visit www.africanext.com/donateto make a secure online donation via credit card or PayPal
- Bank Transfer: For larger donations, please email donate@africanext.com for our bank details
- Corporate Donations: For corporate giving, please contact partnerships@africanext.com
Donation options include:
- · One-time donations
- Monthly recurring donations
- · Sponsor a participant ($500 covers one youth's program fees)
All donations are used to support our programs, with 85% going directly to program implementation and 15% to administrative costs. We provide tax receipts for all donations.
Thank you for your support in empowering Africa's next generation of agripreneurs!