Charlene Ruto, daughter of Kenyan President William Ruto, has made a significant visit to Abja Farms in Uganda, championing climate-smart agriculture and youth empowerment. 1 The visit, hosted by Jane Frances Acilo, director of the farm, focused on fostering sustainable agricultural practices and economic resilience in the region.
Ruto’s visit underscored the growing importance of innovative agricultural solutions in combating climate change and bolstering food security across East Africa. During her discussions, she emphasized the critical role of patience and perseverance in entrepreneurship, particularly for young people and women.
“Start small,” she encouraged, highlighting that dedication and innovation can transform modest agricultural ventures into thriving enterprises. Ruto’s message resonated with attendees, who face significant challenges in a region grappling with the effects of climate change.
The visit also paved the way for future exchange programs, offering young Ugandans the chance to gain practical experience in climate-smart farming. Charlene Ruto reaffirmed the SMACHS Foundation’s commitment to supporting youth-led initiatives that promote sustainable development.
Local Oyam District leaders praised Jane Frances Acilo and Abja Farms for their significant contributions to job creation and community development. They acknowledged the farm’s role in promoting climate adaptation and improving livelihoods through agricultural entrepreneurship.
Acilo expressed her gratitude for the visit and reiterated her dedication to empowering young people and women through agriculture. She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between government, the private sector, and development organizations to maximize the impact of agribusiness in addressing climate change and unemployment.
“This visit marks an important step toward strengthening partnerships and creating more opportunities for young people in the agricultural sector,” Acilo stated. “As stakeholders in sustainability and food security, we have a collective responsibility to support youth-driven and women-led initiatives that contribute to a greener and more resilient future.”
Charlene Ruto’s visit highlights the growing focus on cross-border collaboration in addressing agricultural challenges and empowering the next generation of African farmers. The emphasis on climate-smart agriculture and youth empowerment reflects a shared vision for a sustainable and prosperous future for East Africa.
