Green Jobs for Youth in a Just Food Systems Transition in Africa
The global food system is at a critical turning point, grappling with the compounded effects of climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and political instability. Nowhere is this more pronounced than in Africa, where vulnerable food systems affect millions of livelihoods. Amid these challenges, the concept of a just food systems transition has emerged as a promising framework in development programs and policies. However, questions remain about how justice in food systems should be defined, implemented, and whom it should prioritize—particularly in the context of African youth, who are both disproportionately affected by inequalities and at the forefront of driving transformative change.
To address these challenges, INCLUDE has announced the launch of its new research programme, “Green Jobs for Youth in a Just Food Systems Transition in Africa.”
This initiative seeks to deepen understanding of the political, social, and economic dynamics shaping Africa’s food systems transition while exploring opportunities to create sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems.
Research Focus and Objectives
The programme invites proposals for country-specific case studies to investigate:
- Green Jobs for Youth: How a just food systems transition can contribute to creating green jobs for young people in Africa.
- Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: The influence of national and international frameworks on opportunities for youth within food systems transformation.
- Climate Justice: How climate justice dimensions are integrated into national food systems transition strategies.
- Digital Innovation: The role of digital technologies in accelerating youth employment within the food systems transition.
- Gender Disparities: The impact of gender on access to opportunities in green agriculture.
The programme emphasizes meaningful stakeholder engagement, particularly with youth and young women, to ensure inclusive and equitable solutions. The programme’s foundation paper is available for further insights into its goals and objectives.
Who Can Apply?
Researchers, institutions, youth-led organizations, and African knowledge institutions are encouraged to submit proposals. Applications can be submitted by individuals or organizations committed to exploring the political economy of food systems transformation and its implications for youth employment.
Key Dates and Details
- The call for proposals and application guidelines are available in both English and French.
- The deadline for submission of questions is 9 December 2024 (questions can be submitted in English or French).
- Application deadline: January 6, 2025.
This is an exciting opportunity for researchers and organizations to contribute to actionable insights and solutions that foster sustainable livelihoods for African youth in a just food systems transition.
For more information and to access the application guidelines, visit the INCLUDE website.
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