CHAPTER ONE

1           INTRODUCTION

1.1        Background of the study

Youth unemployment is a growing global concern that requires urgent attention. Globally, youth unemployment has become a critical issue, with significant socio-economic implications. The International Labor Organization (ILO) reports that the global youth unemployment rate has remained consistently high, posing a major challenge to economic growth and social stability (ILO, 2021). In sub-Saharan Africa, the situation is particularly alarming, as rapid population growth and limited formal employment opportunities have left many young people without jobs or stable income sources. According to the World Bank (2022), approximately 13.6% of young people worldwide are unemployed, with sub-Saharan Africa experiencing some of the highest rates This has led to increased poverty, social unrest, and rural-to-urban migration, placing further strain on urban infrastructure and services (United Nations, 2019). In response, governments and development agencies have been promoting agriculture as a viable solution to youth unemployment. Agriculture, which remains the backbone of many African economies, holds the potential to create jobs, improve food security, and drive sustainable economic development (FAO, 2020).

In Cameroon, agriculture accounts for over 70% of rural employment and the agriculture sector plays a central role in the national economy, contributing significantly to employment and gross domestic product (GDP). Yet, the sector faces numerous challenges, including limited access to modern farming techniques, financing, and markets (MINADER, 2021). Young people, who are often more educated and innovative, are well-positioned to modernize the sector and increase productivity. However, their participation is hindered by negative perceptions of agriculture, inadequate support systems, and a lack of targeted initiatives to engage them in agricultural activities (Njomo, 2020). Addressing these challenges through a structured project management approach can help harness the potential of youth, reduce unemployment, and promote sustainable development in the region.

Mezam Division, located in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, is predominantly rural, with agriculture serving as the primary economic activity. The area’s fertile soils and favorable weather conditions provide immense opportunities for crop and livestock farming. However, despite its agricultural potential, youth unemployment remains a pressing issue. Many young people migrate to urban areas in search of better opportunities, leaving behind an aging farming population and underutilized agricultural resources (Tambe, 2021). Promoting youth involvement in agriculture through well-structured projects and strategic interventions is critical to reversing these trends.

Recent studies have highlighted the potential of agricultural projects to engage youth and reduce unemployment. For instance, Adeyonu, Balogun, and Ajala (2019) argue that youth participation in agriculture can be enhanced through targeted project management approaches that address barriers such as limited access to land, credit, and training. Similarly, Nkemleke and Epo (2021) emphasize the role of agricultural entrepreneurship in creating employment opportunities for youth, particularly through value addition and agro-processing. These studies suggest that agricultural projects, when effectively managed, can serve as a catalyst for youth empowerment and economic development. In Cameroon, several initiatives have been launched to promote youth involvement in agriculture. For example, the government’s “Agricultural Value Chain Development Project” (PNDA) aims to integrate youth into agricultural value chains by providing training, access to finance, and market linkages (Ngang & Mbu, 2019). Despite these efforts, challenges persist, including inadequate implementation of policies, limited youth participation in decision-making processes, and a lack of coordination among stakeholders (Mbah & Fonchingong, 2018). These gaps highlight the need for a more structured project management approach to ensure the success of agricultural initiatives targeting youth.

Theoretical frameworks such as the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA) and the Agile project management model have been proposed to guide the design and implementation of youth-focused agricultural projects. The SLA emphasizes the importance of building youth capacities, improving access to resources, and creating enabling environments for sustainable livelihoods (Osei & Aidoo, 2016). On the other hand, Beck et al. (2017) introduced the Agile Project Management Model, which is known for its adaptability and iterative approach. Agile emphasizes continuous improvement, feedback, and rapid response to changes. This model is particularly suitable for youth-driven agricultural projects that require flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions and environmental factors.

Despite the growing body of literature on youth involvement in agriculture, there is limited research on the application of project management principles to address youth unemployment in Cameroon. This study seeks to fill this gap by examining how project management approaches can be leveraged to enhance youth participation in agricultural projects and reduce unemployment. By drawing on insights from past studies, this research aims to contribute to the development of evidence-based strategies for engaging youth in agriculture and promoting sustainable economic growth.

1.2         Statement of the Problem

Youth unemployment in Cameroon has reached alarming levels, particularly in rural areas such as Mezam Division. According to the National Institute of Statistics (2020), the unemployment rate among young people in Cameroon is significantly higher than the national average. This situation is compounded by a lack of access to formal employment opportunities and limited engagement in agriculture, which remains underdeveloped despite its potential.

In Mezam, the persistent unemployment among youth has resulted in increased poverty, rural-urban migration, and social instability. Despite the abundance of agricultural resources in the region, young people are often reluctant to engage in farming due to perceptions of agriculture as a labor-intensive and unprofitable venture (Tambe, 2021). Moreover, the absence of structured agricultural projects and inadequate support mechanisms has further discouraged youth involvement.

A project management approach that incorporates proper planning, resource allocation, monitoring, and evaluation could offer a sustainable solution to this problem. By effectively managing agricultural initiatives and engaging young people in the process, it is possible to reduce unemployment and promote economic development in Mezam Division. This study seeks to explore how a project management framework can be applied to encourage youth participation in agricultural projects and address the high unemployment rate in the region.

1.3          Research question

1.3.1        Main research question

How can project management approaches be leveraged to enhance youth involvement in agricultural projects and reduce unemployment in Mezam, Northwest Region of Cameroon?

1.3.2        Specific research Questions

1. What are the key factors influencing youth involvement in agricultural projects in Mezam Division?
2. How can a project management approach enhance youth participation in agricultural initiatives in Mezam?
3. What impact does youth involvement in agricultural projects have on reducing unemployment in Mezam Division?

1.4         Research Objective

1.4.1        Main research objective

To evaluate the role of project management strategies in fostering youth participation in agricultural projects and addressing unemployment in Mezam, Northwest Region of Cameroon.

1.4.2        Specific research objectives

1. To identify the factors that influence youth involvement in agricultural projects in Mezam Division.
2. To assess how a project management approach can promote and enhance youth participation in agricultural initiatives.
3. To evaluate the impact of youth participation in agricultural projects on reducing unemployment in Mezam Division.