Young farmers on irrigation schemes in southern Africa: Demographics and influences on farming

Youth employment is a global policy priority and critical for economic and social growth and food security. Many youth in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) experience significant income vulnerability, and the challenge is to increase the productivity of those working as well as creating more jobs. Whilst research on young people in agriculture has accelerated in the past two decades, there has been limited focus on youth engagement in small-scale irrigation schemes. To contribute to filling this gap, this report draws on research undertaken through an agricultural research-for-development project—established in Mozambique, Tanzania and Zimbabwe—to improve scheme profitability and explore inequity, including for youth.