Kenya’s Waridi Champions Africa’s Youth and Food Security at AU Cairo

By Victoria Movine

Kenyan youth leader Jenniffer Wairimu Waruingi, popularly known as Waridi, has emerged as a continental voice for food security, sustainable agriculture, and youth inclusion following her keynote address at a high-level African Union (AU) forum in Cairo.

Waridi, who serves as President of the Kenya Youth Organization (KYO) and founder of the Waridi Foundation, was among the few young leaders invited to speak at the gathering focused on the implementation of the CAADP Kampala Strategy—Africa’s roadmap to achieving food security by 2035.

Speaking before representatives from all AU member states and officials from Egypt’s Ministry of Agriculture, Waridi called for the structured inclusion of youth and women in agri-food systems across the continent.

“Africa cannot achieve food sovereignty if youth and women remain sidelined,” Waridi declared. “We are vital actors—not just participants—and must be fully integrated into decision-making and implementation processes.”

Waridi highlighted the work of KYO and Waridi Foundation in promoting agribusiness among young people in Kenya, while also spotlighting her broader initiative, the Africa Development Tour. The tour connects youth across Africa to share innovative solutions, promote sustainable tourism, and build momentum for a self-reliant future.

She also leads Kwetu Inn Africa, a travel and tourism brand that celebrates African culture and eco-tourism, aligning with her broader mission to rebrand Africa from within.

During her remarks, Waridi commended Egypt’s advancements in agricultural innovation despite challenging desert conditions, particularly in irrigation, research, and food resilience. She challenged Kenya’s Ministry of Agriculture, led by Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, to adopt similar bold strategies—while ensuring that youth-led organizations like KYO are actively engaged in shaping national agricultural policies.

“We must go beyond boardroom policies and activate change on the ground,” she emphasized. “Youth are not just the future—they are the farmers, innovators, and solution architects of today.”

Waridi’s advocacy is deeply personal. Raised in Lamu and the daughter of respected local farmer Michael Waruingi, her leadership is grounded in both heritage and action. Her vision remains unwavering: a food-secure, youth-driven, and self-reliant Africa.