Introducing the Youth in Agrifood Systems Performance Index (YAPI)

The Youth in Agrifood Systems Performance Index (YAPI) was unveiled at the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week in Abuja to measure and track the involvement of young people in Africa’s agrifood sectors. According to the organizers, the index shifts the focus from aspirational goals to a performance-based framework for youth-led agrifood transformation across the continent.

YAPI Framework and Performance Metrics

The YAPI serves as a data-driven tool designed to evaluate how effectively African nations are integrating youth into the agrifood value chain. By moving away from general aspirations, the index establishes specific metrics to track actual performance in youth employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership within agricultural systems.

The index was introduced during the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week, an event held in Abuja, Nigeria. The framework aims to provide a standardized method for governments and international partners to identify gaps in youth engagement and implement targeted interventions based on empirical data.

Youth-Led Agrifood Transformation in Africa

The launch of the YAPI reflects a broader effort to address the demographic reality of Africa, where a significant portion of the population is under 30. The index focuses on the transition of youth from subsistence farming to high-value roles in the agrifood system, including processing, logistics, and digital agriculture.

By tracking performance, the index seeks to highlight the barriers preventing young people from entering the sector, such as limited access to land, credit, and modern technology. The data gathered through YAPI is intended to inform policy shifts that prioritize youth-led innovation and sustainable food systems.

Context of the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week

The 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week provided the platform for the YAPI unveiling, gathering scientists, policymakers, and agricultural stakeholders in Abuja. The event focused on the intersection of scientific research and practical application to ensure food security and economic growth across African regions.

The introduction of the index at this forum emphasizes the role of science and measurable data in driving agricultural reform. The organizers indicated that the index will allow for a more precise understanding of where youth-led transformations are succeeding and where systemic failures persist.