By Jones Gadama
Africa’s brightest young agri-tech innovators are set to gather in Kampala, Uganda, from June 17 to June 19 for the Agriculture, Youth and Technology (AYuTe) NextGen 2025 Conference.
Organized by Heifer International, the conference aims to bring together young innovators, investors, policymakers, and development partners to discuss technological solutions to revolutionize food systems on the continent.
Themed “AgTech Generation Rising,” the conference follows a continent-wide competition that drew over 100 applicants from 10 countries.
After rigorous technical assessment sessions in Lagos and Nairobi, 11 finalists emerged with solutions that are climate-smart, market-ready, and focused on access to finance and scale.
These finalists will pitch live before a distinguished panel of investors, policymakers, and ecosystem enablers, with the chance to secure catalytic seed funding, mentorship, and a place in the innovation ecosystem.
Adesuwa Ifedi, Heifer International Senior Vice-President for Africa Programmes, emphasizes that the conference spotlights youths as the true architects of Africa’s agricultural future.
Dayo Aduroja, Africa Youth and Innovation Lead at Heifer International, highlights that young people are proving that Africa’s agriculture can be both innovative and profitable.
The AYuTe NextGen conference provides a platform for young innovators to showcase their solutions, network with industry leaders, and access funding and mentorship opportunities.
One notable finalist is Assumpta Nakalema from Uganda, who developed a solar-powered egg incubator reducing post-harvest losses and energy dependency for poultry farmers.
The conference will feature bold, youth-led conversations, solution-driven panels, and an immersive expo showcasing cutting-edge innovations in agritech and agribusiness.
With Africa’s population projected to reach 4.3 billion, the event aims to catalyze prosperity for smallholder farmers while fostering sustainable growth in agriculture across the continent.
