Factors affecting youth’s participation in agricultural activities as gainful employment in rural areas: a case study of Kilombero district

This study explored the youth’s participation in self-employment agricultural activities in rural areas, at Kining’ina village of Kilombero District in Morogoro Region. The study, specifically, investigated extent of youth’s involvement in agricultural activities, the challenges they face and coping strategies to overcome such challenges. The study employed exploratory study design underpinned by mainly the qualitative research approach, with some elements of quantitative incorporated to support qualitative data. A total of 60 youths aged from 15 and 24, six agricultural extension officers, three village leaders, one District Agricultural Officer and 20 parents. Whereas parents were randomly selected, other respondents were purposively selected. Interviews, focus group discussions, direct observations and documentary review were used in a triangulation manner to collect the requisite data. The study established that, only a small number of youths participated in agricultural activities as a means to salaried gainful employment opportunity. Most of these youth were engaged in agricultural activities just for subsistence purposes. The study also found that agricultural activities were hindered by poor marketing system, poor and lack of modern working tools, lack of education for agricultural activities and poor rural and unsupportive infrastructures. To make agricultural activities viable and attractive to youths as a source of alternative employment, the study recommends the establishment of rural-based financial institutions, planning and distribution of land to the needy and improvement of rural infrastructures.