How Young People Can Get Into Farming

This blog post will guide you through how young people can get into farming, and provide actionable steps for aspiring farmers. In today’s world, many young people are exploring different avenues to secure their future. One promising path is farming. With the rising challenges of food insecurity and increasing global demand, especially in Africa, it’s more crucial than ever for young individuals to consider farming as a viable career. But how young people can get into farming and succeed in this challenging yet rewarding field?

The Journey of Young Farmers

From Corporate World to Farming

It’s not uncommon for young professionals to leave their corporate jobs to pursue their passion for farming. Take Reggie Kizem, a qualified accountant who made the bold decision to transition from the corporate world to farming. He realized the ever-growing demand for food and saw an opportunity to contribute to food security while building a sustainable business. How young people can get into farming often starts with recognizing the need and having the courage to take that first step.

Starting Small and Growing Big

Reggie’s story is a testament to the power of starting small. He began his farming journey at the age of 21, with just 100 chickens in his backyard. His business grew steadily as he expanded his operations, eventually acquiring a plot of land and securing contracts with major clients like hospitals and hotels. How young people can get into farming often involves starting with what you have and gradually expanding as you gain experience and resources.

The Role of Family and Passion

Leveraging Family Background

For some, the journey into farming is deeply rooted in family traditions. Muketwa Luvumbi, another young farmer, used his family’s plot to start his vegetable farming business. While studying accounting, he realized his passion for farming and decided to pursue it full-time. His parents’ background in farming provided valuable knowledge, which he used to expand his operations. How young people can get into farming can sometimes be as simple as leveraging the resources and knowledge already available within the family.

The Importance of Passion

Passion plays a significant role in farming, especially when starting young. Both Reggie and Muketwa emphasized the importance of being passionate about farming. It’s not just about making a living; it’s about contributing to food security and making a positive impact on society. How young people can get into farming and succeed often depends on their level of passion and commitment to the field.

Overcoming Challenges in Farming

Accessing Financing and Resources

One of the biggest challenges young farmers face is accessing financing and resources to scale their operations. Both Reggie and Muketwa highlighted the difficulties in securing funding and the importance of starting small. However, they also stressed the need for government support in providing training and resources to young farmers. How young people can get into farming successfully often requires overcoming these financial hurdles through perseverance and strategic planning.

The Value of Training and Mentorship

Training and mentorship are crucial for young farmers who want to succeed. Reggie, who now runs Spodagon Farming, offers training and 12-month mentorship programs to aspiring farmers. This support system helps new farmers gain the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed. How young people can get into farming effectively often involves seeking out training and mentorship opportunities to build a solid foundation.

Building a Sustainable Farming Business

Starting with Small Markets

When it comes to how young people can get into farming, starting small and gradually expanding is key. Both Reggie and Muketwa began by supplying local markets and small businesses. Over time, they built connections and expanded their client base, eventually supplying larger markets and institutions. This approach allows young farmers to grow their businesses sustainably without taking on too much risk.

The Power of Collaboration

Collaboration among farmers can significantly reduce costs and increase profitability. Reggie mentioned the importance of working together with other farmers to buy supplies in bulk, thereby reducing feed costs and improving overall profitability. How young people can get into farming successfully often involves finding ways to collaborate with others in the industry to maximize resources and opportunities.

Final Thoughts on How Young People Can Get Into Farming

Farming offers young people a unique opportunity to build a sustainable and fulfilling career. By starting small, leveraging family resources, seeking training and mentorship, and collaborating with others, young farmers can overcome challenges and achieve success. How young people can get into farming is not just about financial gains—it’s about contributing to food security and making a lasting impact on society.

If you’re a young person interested in farming, start where you are, and don’t be afraid to take that first step. With passion, perseverance, and the right support, you can build a thriving farming business that not only sustains you but also helps secure the future of food for your community and beyond.

Additional Resources for Farmers in Namibia

The National Association of Horticulture Producers (Nahop) offers training for small-scale farmers across Namibia. Additionally, the Namibian Agronomic Board provides valuable resources and guidelines, which you can access by visiting their website.

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If you have more questions, look through our blog for answers!