SKI Youth Transform Agroecology Leadership Across Southern Africa
From 16th to 20th February 2026, thirteen youth leaders from SKI partner organizations gathered in Lilongwe, Malawi, for a regional meeting organized by the Seed and Knowledge Initiative (SKI), aimed at strengthening collaboration, leadership, and practical agroecology skills.
Over the course of the week, participants engaged in an intensive Training for Transformation (TfT) programme, deepening their abilities in community engagement, participatory facilitation, and advocacy. Field visits to Nthawi Farm and the Permaculture Paradise Institute provided hands-on exposure to agroecology practices, sparking rich discussions about economic opportunities and youth participation.
“We were inspired to see that no organization owns the farmers; real change comes from collective action,” said Omali Phiri from the Zambia Alliance for Agroecology and Biodiversity.
During the meeting, youth leaders refined their Strategy and highlighted the importance of advocacy, storytelling, social media engagement, and knowledge sharing while also taking the opportunity to look at how the youth priorities can be prioritised within SKI, in partner plans, budgets and fundraising efforts. sharing. Leadership journey stories allowed participants to reflect on personal journeys, challenges, and cultural influences, strengthening bonds and reinforcing the role of youth leadership in agroecology.
SKI’s TfT program follows a “Train-the-Trainer” model, equipping participants to mentor peers across the partnership. Through field visits, workshops, exchanges, and community demonstrations, youth gain hands-on skills that complement advocacy efforts, ensuring that their work is inclusive, socially just, and grounded in local contexts.
Equipped with new tools and knowledge, these youth leaders are now ready to champion sustainable farmer led seed systems, safeguard Indigenous knowledge, and advance climate and gender just agroecology practices. The SKI Coordination Team was warmly thanked for creating a platform that nurtures the next generation of agroecology champions in Southern Africa, strengthening regional collaboration, solidarity, and youth- led innovation.
