A lack of agricultural and industrial skills – particularly among young people between the ages of 18 and 35 – is a large part of what is hampering economic growth on the continent.
“African countries need to re-prioritise and refocus their education on areas that will build their economies,” said acting South African high commissioner in Uganda, Phumeza Mukendi, speaking at a South Africa-Uganda business seminar hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry (dti) in Kampala, Uganda yesterday (Tuesday).
The seminar, attended by about 200 businesspeople, was part of the five-day Outward Trade and Investment Mission to Uganda organised by the dti. 25 South African companies operating in the agro-processing, capital equipment, energy and furniture sectors arrived in the East African country on Monday.
Agriculture and agro-processing were singled out as sectors with major investment and trade potential for South African companies to explore with Uganda. These include value addition in dairy, beef, poultry, fish as well as skins and hides industries.
Makendi said there was a need to invest in agriculture and encourage younger generations to pursue studies and up their skills in the sector. He added that although the continent was “endowed with fertile land” there was low productivity and a low application of science and technology.
