Ecuadorian Agrojoven program promotes rural youth in agriculture

The Agrojoven program is working to revitalize Ecuador's agricultural sector by creating formal employment for rural youth. This initiative aims to address concerns regarding the aging farming population, as the average age of Ecuadorian farmers is currently 58 years.

Supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the program has seen significant growth. Following 1,345 participants previously, an additional 1,800 youths enrolled in 2026. During a recent business matchmaking event in Quito, 300 young entrepreneurs presented a catalog of 200 products, including specialty coffee, honey, chocolate, and guayusa beverages.

Of the participants, 70 engaged in business sessions with 26 companies from various sectors, such as hotels and factories. The initiative aims to secure purchase pre-agreements totaling $100,000. Ecuadorian Vice President Maria José Pinto and Sariha Moya, head of the Ministry of Economic Development and Productive, attended the event to pledge support for credit financing, market access, and public policies to bolster rural youth employment.