In developed countries such as the United States and Canada, the average age of farmers is around 60. It is the same in Africa. Younger populations are seeking out jobs that take them to the city, perhaps job that will earn them a better wage. If our youth does not take over our farms, the industry may not be as sustainable as we would hope.
In the short film Age of the Farmer, director Spencer MacDonald collaborates with photojournalist Eva Verbeeck to introduce us to “a group of idealistic young farmers who are fighting to return the industry to its former strength,” The Atlantic reports. Take a look:
Do you think the younger generations who are uninterested in farming have put the industry at risk? Do you think enough young people are interested in farming to make it sustainable?