Young farmers in the Bohlabela region elected five people to be their Youth in Agriculture and Rural Development (YARD) committee members on Monday May 9.

YARD is a youth structure aimed at promoting active participation of young people in agriculture and rural development, including implementing appropriate programmes, policies and services. It also advocates for young farmers’ equal participation and decision-making in the sector.

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The national Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has called for the youth structure to be revived, because this plays a major role in encouraging young people in agriculture to play a part in skills development, creating jobs and reducing unemployment, thereby ensuring food security.

Kate Nyambi said their plans are to assist other young farmers in the rural areas.

“Most young people undermine farming because they assume it is for older people. We want them to see that it is possible for them even if they young, and that they have a chance to do something big for themselves. We plan to reach out to them and show them how it is done.”