Factors Affecting Youth Participation in Agriculture at Ndwedwe in KwaZulu Natal

Youth participation in agriculture remains essential for ensuring food security, promoting rural development, and sustaining agricultural productivity in South Africa. Despite the agricultural potential of rural areas, youth involvement in farming continues to decline because of socio-economic, institutional, and perceptual barriers. This study investigated the factors influencing youth participation in agriculture in Ward 7 of the Ndwedwe Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and primary data were collected from 97 respondents using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), with results presented as frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed a high level of youth unemployment and limited involvement in agricultural development initiatives. Most respondents reported negative perceptions of agriculture, viewing it as an occupation associated with older and less educated individuals. Perception and attitude emerged as the most influential barriers to youth participation (88.6%), followed by inadequate agricultural knowledge and skills (37.5%), limited financial support (33.0%), and restricted access to land and natural resources (31.8%). Furthermore, respondents indicated limited awareness of youth-focused agricultural programmes implemented within the study area. The study concludes that improving youth participation in agriculture requires coordinated interventions that address educational, financial, institutional, and socio-cultural constraints. Integrating agriculture into school curricula, strengthening agricultural extension services, improving access to productive resources, and promoting agribusiness opportunities could enhance youth engagement and contribute to sustainable rural livelihoods. The findings provide evidence for policymakers and development practitioners seeking to formulate strategies that encourage youth participation in the agricultural sector.