For over 20 years, Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe have published the Global Hunger Index (GHI) Report, which tracks hunger levels globally, regionally, and nationally. This report, crucial for policymakers and stakeholders, guides efforts to combat hunger and achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2: End Hunger. The recently released 2024 report builds on the 2023 findings, which focused on 'The power of the youth in shaping food systems'. This theme highlighted the necessity of engaging young people in discussions about hunger and food systems.
The 2023 report illuminated the overlapping crises affecting global hunger, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, economic stagnation, and climate change. These factors disproportionately disadvantage youth in low-and middle-income countries, making them the generation that will inherit failing food systems. Globally, the 2023 GHI score was 18.3 per cent, indicating moderate hunger levels. In Kenya, classified as a lower-middle-income country, the score was 22.0 per cent, marked as serious. Alarmingly, 27.8 per cent of the Kenyan population was reported as undernourished in 2023, a significant increase from 20 per cent in 2015. Recent climatic disasters like floods and droughts have further diminished local communities' ability to secure adequate food.
Economic shocks and climatic disasters render youth in countries like Kenya especially vulnerable, limiting their access to essential dietary and nutritional needs. Given that 75 per cent of Kenya's population is aged between 15 and 34, engaging this demographic is crucial for transforming agrifood systems. Food sovereignty—defined as the right to healthy, culturally appropriate food produced sustainably—presents an opportunity to involve youth in shaping food systems through education, technology, and policy innovation.
The 2024 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York emphasised the need for financing to end hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. Discussions focused on innovative financial solutions to support advanced agrifood systems and eradicate poverty. These global reforms hinge on the energy and capabilities of young people, making it vital to foster such discussions at both global and national levels.
Despite the critical need for youth participation in agriculture, many young people are reluctant to engage in food systems. The average age of farmers in Kenya is 60, indicating a generational gap. To create a vision for food security, it is essential to understand and address the reasons for youth disengagement from agriculture. Nurturing a culture that values nutritious food production and establishing supportive policies are foundational steps. Providing accessible financing and technical support at micro-levels can help rectify the inequalities that undermine food systems. Additionally, addressing land access for youth is crucial for establishing sustainable food systems.
Rapid urbanisation also offers avenues for urban communities to engage in food systems, emphasising the importance of nutritious food options. Collaborative efforts within communities are vital for achieving food and nutrition security, laying the groundwork for improved health and economic resilience. Promoting sustainable agricultural practices can enhance community resilience against economic and environmental challenges.
The youth represent a powerful force in addressing the global hunger crisis. As both future leaders and current innovators, they bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the fight against hunger. Many young Kenyans are already leading sustainable agricultural initiatives and leveraging technology to improve food production and reduce waste. With appropriate support and resources, their impact can be amplified, ensuring their efforts are effective and environmentally sustainable.
To effectively combat hunger and malnutrition, a systems approach must be integrated into the National Food and Nutrition Security Policy. This requires a coherent legal framework and policy-making process across various sectors. Article 43 of Kenya's Constitution recognises the right to adequate food, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive approach to food security. Stakeholders must allocate significant resources to foster inclusive food systems, empowering youth, women, and smallholders through capacity building and resource access.
Establishing a robust governance framework for food systems is essential for promoting transparency, citizen engagement, and accountability. Community dialogues are crucial for raising awareness about sustainable food systems and ensuring meaningful participation from women and youth in decisions affecting their right to food.
Creating an enabling economic environment for smallholders and marginalised groups is also vital. Supporting women and youth-led initiatives that foster innovation and entrepreneurship in agriculture can lead to sustainable solutions. Collaboration among government, the private sector, civil society, and academia is necessary to enhance the evidence base for effective interventions, maximising collective impact.
In summary, the role of youth in transforming food systems is critical. By prioritising the right to food, we can empower young leaders to drive food systems transformation. Investing in sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems will not only provide viable livelihoods for young people but also ensure their active participation in eradicating hunger, fostering a food-secure future for all.
Ms Wahome is Country Director, Concern Worldwide. Mr Schniepper is Country Director, Welthungerhilfe
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