Young generation urged to seize opportunities in agriculture

The private sector is calling on young people to embrace opportunities in agriculture and support the country’s push for national food security.

Speaking on the ‘Starting Point’ podcast on Wednesday, Managing Director of Bounty Farm Limited, David Fernandes, said the government’s plan to transform the agriculture sector requires “a committed and unified approach from all stakeholders.”

He stressed that private sector involvement is critical to achieving these goals. “For us to really achieve self-reliance and self-sufficiency in agriculture, we need to have a large percentage of the population doing this task of feeding the nation,” Fernandes said.

Fernandes urged the younger generation to adopt a strong work ethic. “I think that the next generation of entrepreneurs needs to step up to the plate, try to dream big and put their muscles to the wheel; not just talk about it,” he said.

He added that the success of the government’s food security initiatives depends on young people committing to work beyond online activities.

The Fernandes family business spans agriculture, milling, and shipping. Bounty Farm Limited is the country’s largest poultry producer.