Opinion articles highlight the importance of human capital and farmer empowerment in building a sustainable future for Africa
Date
August 19, 2026
Vi Agroforestry contributors featured in the People Daily Public Opinion and Feedback section discussing human capital for the green economy and farmer-led biodiversity conservation.
Vi Agroforestry is proud to have contributed to public discourse through two opinion articles published in People Daily on 17 August 2026. The articles address two interconnected priorities for sustainable development in Africa: strengthening human capital for the green economy and empowering farmers to conserve biodiversity.
In the first article,“Human Capital: The Catalyst for Africa’s Green Skills, Jobs, Sustainable Economy,” Shadrack Agaki explores the importance of developing the skills, knowledge, and competencies required to accelerate the continent’s green transition. The article highlights the role of education, technical and vocational training, and youth empowerment in creating opportunities within renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and other emerging green sectors.
The second article,“Biodiversity Future Depends on Empowering Farmers,” authored by Leah Ngungu, emphasizes the vital contribution of smallholder farmers to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration. The article draws on Vi Agroforestry’s long-standing experience in agroforestry, demonstrating how sustainable land management practices can simultaneously support livelihoods, restore landscapes, and protect biodiversity.
The publications underscore Vi Agroforestry’s commitment to generating and sharing knowledge that informs policy, strengthens community action, and promotes sustainable development across East Africa.
As the region continues to confront the challenges of climate change, land degradation, biodiversity loss, and youth unemployment, investing in people and nature remains fundamental to creating resilient food systems, thriving ecosystems, and sustainable livelihoods.