The Young Professionals for Agricultural Development (YPARD) is proud to congratulate Selestine Focus Mushi, YPARD Tanzania Country Representative, on his selection as an Agroecology Champion under the Support to Regional Multi-Actor Research Networks (RMRNs) for Agroecology Project. Selestine joins a distinguished cohort of eight Agroecology Champions selected from across Africa under the RMRN Project, who were officially unveiled during the RMRN side event at the 9th Africa Agriculture Science Week (AASW9) in Abuja, Nigeria.
Jointly implemented by the Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA) and the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) with support from the European Commission (DG INTPA) and technical backstopping from the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the initiative seeks to identify influential advocates who will promote agroecological transitions across Africa through leadership, knowledge sharing, policy engagement and community outreach.
The Agroecology Champion role recognises individuals with demonstrated leadership in agroecology and sustainable food systems who can bridge research, policy and practice while inspiring the next generation of practitioners. Champions will promote agroecological principles through public engagement, support knowledge exchange, contribute to documenting good practices, represent agroecology in policy dialogues and strengthen youth and women's participation in sustainable food systems.
Selestine's selection reflects his longstanding commitment to advancing youth leadership in agroecology. As YPARD Tanzania Country Representative, he has played a leading role in coordinating youth engagement under the Research for Agroecology Network Southern Africa (RAENS), working with young people, researchers, educators and local communities to promote participatory research, knowledge exchange and sustainable agricultural practices.
As an Agroecology Champion, Selestine will contribute to raising awareness of agroecological approaches, facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, promoting learning across networks and strengthening advocacy for sustainable food systems within Tanzania and beyond.
His appointment also reinforces YPARD's commitment to nurturing young leaders who are driving positive change across Africa's agrifood systems. Through initiatives such as RAENS and its broader youth engagement programmes, YPARD continues to create opportunities for young professionals to influence research, policy and practice while contributing to more resilient, inclusive and sustainable food systems.
Congratulations, Selestine! YPARD celebrates this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to the impact you will make as an Agroecology Champion.
RAENS (Research for Agroecology Network Southern Africa) is a regional initiative that brings together farmers, youth, researchers, and practitioners to strengthen agroecology research, learning, knowledge sharing, and policy engagement across Southern Africa.
