Burundi is hosting the 11th international conference on agribusiness incubation, acceleration of agri-food businesses, and an exhibition of products and innovations, which began on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. The conference aims to foster an Africa where young people view agriculture as a modern, innovative, and future-oriented sector. This ambition seeks to build an Africa where young people actively choose agriculture as a dynamic and viable career path, rather than merely a traditional occupation. The event shows a strategic effort to transform the perception of agriculture across the continent, positioning it as a sector ripe with opportunity for innovation and growth.
African Delegation Gathers
Delegations from various African Union member countries participated in the conference, including representatives from Nigeria, Angola, Uganda, Kenya, and Tunisia. These international participants reflect the pan-African scope and collaborative spirit driving the conference's objectives. The presence of such a diverse group of nations notes the shared commitment among African states to advancing agribusiness and youth entrepreneurship. After the initial speeches, attendees proceeded to visit the exhibition stands. The visitors were able to view a range of products and innovations displayed by different participants, offering a tangible demonstration of current advancements and future possibilities within the agri-food sector. These displays showcased a variety of agricultural technologies, sustainable farming practices, and value-added food products, all designed to inspire and inform.
Incubation Ecosystem Initiatives
The conference represents a decisive step in restructuring the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Burundi. This restructuring is being pursued through several key initiatives, including Cefore Rusi, Paeej, Banque d’investissement pour les jeunes (Bije), Banque d’investissement et de développement des femmes (Bidf), and Agence burundaise pour l’emploi des jeunes (Abej). These initiatives are key for providing the necessary support structures, funding, and training for young entrepreneurs venturing into agribusiness. The event also provides an opportunity to highlight and further develop digital solutions specifically designed for the agribusiness sector. These solutions encompass various technological advancements such as precision agriculture techniques, which optimize resource use and yield; online sales platforms to expand market reach, connecting producers directly with consumers; smart irrigation systems for efficient resource management, conserving water and improving crop health; and sophisticated data analysis tools to inform decision-making, enabling more strategic planning and operations. The focus on digital innovation is intended to modernize agricultural practices and enhance the competitiveness of agri-food businesses in the global market.
Ministerial Vision for Agriculture
Burundi's Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture, Lydia Nsekera, articulated the conference's central objective, emphasizing the theme: "Faire progresser les exosystèmes d’incubation et d’accéleration pour créer des opportunités d’emplois en Afrique." This theme, which translates to "Advancing incubation and acceleration ecosystems to create employment opportunities in Africa," shows the strategic focus of the gathering. Ms. Nsekera stated, "Faire progresser les exosystèmes d’incubation et d’accéleration pour créer des opportunités d’emplois en Afrique," noting the ministerial vision for agricultural development across the continent. The minister's remarks set the stage for discussions aimed at strengthening support structures for young entrepreneurs in the agribusiness sector. She emphasized that strong incubation and acceleration programs are vital for nurturing innovative ideas and transforming them into sustainable businesses. The conference is designed to facilitate the growth of these ecosystems, ultimately leading to increased job creation and economic empowerment for African youth within agriculture. This approach seeks to transform the perception of agriculture into a modern and viable career path, attracting a new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators. By fostering an environment where young people can thrive in agribusiness, Burundi and its partners aim to build a more food- secure and prosperous future for Africa.