Economic growth perspective in developing countries through agribusiness development: profiles of youth agricultural enterprises in Benin

Abstract

Youth unemployment and prevailing poverty, which continue to challenge inclusive development in sub-Saharan Africa, have prompted governments to encourage self-employment, particularly through agricultural entrepreneurship, as a response to limited public sector opportunities. Addressing the gap in policy-relevant evidence, this paper analyzes youth-led agribusiness initiatives in Benin using a mixed-methods approach. A structured survey of 353 enterprises informed a cluster and indicator-based analysis, aiming to profile youth engagement and assess economic viability across distinct categories. Three distinct agribusiness clusters emerged: low-capacity (45%), starting (34%), and experienced and high-capacity (21%). Economic viability was strongly correlated with experience and resource access, as the most successful enterprises demonstrated stronger financial and operational resources. To fully harness youth potential in agribusiness transformation, gender-responsive policies must address social and technological shifts. Effective strategies should integrate tailored financing, skills development, innovative market access, digital integration and infrastructural investment, and enabling institutional environments. This paper offers new empirical insights into youth agribusiness dynamics, heterogeneity of models and implications for sustainable development and provides actionable recommendations aligned with regional and international development agendas. It contributes gender-disaggregated evidence to inform inclusive policy frameworks and forward-looking interventions that support youth entrepreneurship and equitable economic growth.