Africa is regarded as a key centre of agricultural production. The continent has the agricultural potential not only to feed itself but also to grow a surplus to support the global food security. Yet, agriculture in Africa currently stands at the crossroads of persistent food shortages compounded by climate change threats and stagnant youth employment opportunities.
The population trends suggest that the number of young people entering Africa’s working-age population will be rising for years to come and youth have the potential to generate economic growth and even transformation across Africa. There is a critical need to spark this transformation by seeking and supporting youth-led and youth-focused initiatives that leverage ICTs to respond to some of the toughest challenges faced by African youth today.
FAO’s #HackAgainstHunger/Africa is seeking innovative business models and new technologies to unlock the largely untapped reservoir of youth employment opportunities in food and agriculture in Africa.
You can join young developers and entrepreneurs from different countries in Africa to accelerate bold, promising ideas for youth-led and youth-focused digital innovations. Be part of the solution and help FAO to respond to some of the toughest challenges faced by African youth today.
Hackers will be benefiting from the specific know-how and skill sets of experts on food and agriculture. Like every hackathon, #HackAgainstHunger/Africa will include:
- A preparation phase including topic exploration and brainstorming of ideas
- Hacking time with the goal to build or draw a prototype
- Mentorship and guidance from expert coaches the development phase
- A final pitch session to a panel of experts and selection of winning team
Who can apply?
Young African developers ages 18-35 with experience in digital innovation and/or entrepreneurship and proof of impact in your community. You can apply individually or as a team of 2 or 3 people. Together we can transform employment and entrepreneurship in food and agriculture in Africa.
The application deadline is 10 August 2018 (23:59 GMT). FAO will inform selected participants and fund their participation.
Please note that all applicants will be asked for a copy of valid passport or equivalent travel document will be required. Applicants who need a visa to come to Rwanda are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.