Growing up in Bukavu, nestled in the lush landscape of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, being African for me means a profound connection to the land. It’s the smell of rain on the soil, the vibrant colours of bustling markets, and the wisdom shared by our elders. It’s a belonging to the land that sustains us, even as it challenges us. I am Charles Baraka Nterany. I am a storyteller.
As a young African at 20, I see the hurdles we face—climate change disrupting agriculture, limited resources affecting education, and political instability creating uncertainty.
Yet, these challenges ignite innovation.
I see it in the way my peers use technology to drive social change and transform agriculture. My work with Kilimo Green Farm revealed the resilience of Congolese farmers, who, against all odds, adapt to climate change with sustainable practices.
In Bukavu, I’ve witnessed Africa’s agricultural abundance, yet hunger persists, intensified by climate change and outdated farming methods. Transforming agriculture is essential to achieving food security.
Through non-profit organizations such as Ecoclimate Vision, I’ve seen how drought-resistant crops and water-harvesting systems empower farmers to weather uncertain climates. Mobile apps now offer real-time weather forecasts and market insights, enabling farmers to make informed choices and maximize yields.
Investment is equally vital. Farmers need access to financing for climate-resilient seeds and tools, and research and development tailored to African challenges is crucial for long-term, culturally relevant solutions.
Empowering women stands as another cornerstone. Women are central to African agriculture, yet often lack access to resources and decision-making roles.
Supporting female farmers can create a more equitable, food-secure future for all.
As a student leader, I have experienced the value of collaboration firsthand.
Connecting young innovators with seasoned farmers and policymakers bridges traditional practices with modern solutions—an intergenerational collaboration.
Together, we can co-create sustainable agricultural practices that resonate within our context.
For African youth, the opportunities are immense.
We are the storytellers, the leaders, the innovators.
To me, being African means carrying both the privilege and responsibility to shape a future where no one goes hungry.
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The #54FacesofAfrica campaign, launched in December 2023 at the 6th YouthConnekt Africa Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, is a collaborative initiative by United Nations Volunteers (UNV), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the YouthConnekt Africa Secretariat (YCAS). This campaign empowers African youth by offering them a platform to share their stories, solutions, and innovations, and contribute to dialogue and policy on Africa’s development.
Charles was part of the YouthConnekt Africa Summit 2024 and delivered a motivational talk as a youth participant at the UNV-led side event on 9 November in Kigali.
Delivering a motivational talk as a youth participant at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit 2024 in Kigali. @UNV, 2024.