How does fulfilling basic needs through sustainable agriculture also create space for economic freedom, social justice, and personal dignity in Africa?

How is Aline’s work building bridges—for the future and for right now?

What does it do for a society to nurture young people, open itself up to innovation, and reject the idea of a “single story”?

Aline Mugisho is the Executive Manager of the Innovative Youth in Agriculture Project at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). She has a bachelor's in Journalism and Communication, a master's in Forced Migration Studies, and is currently working on her doctorate at the Willy Brandt School of Public Policy at the University of Erfurt. Equally as important, is her role as a daughter, sister, mother, and mentor. From her time as a journalist until now, Aline has been a fearless advocate for youth, women, and those who have been displaced from their homes.

Today, Aline and Abbie continue their conversation about Aline’s work in sustainable agriculture. Aline educates Abbie about the needs of people in her community and how improved agriculture, production, and access are at the heart of it. Describing the effects of a society that is “as vulnerable as its food,” Aline makes the case for a new job system and a new economic force. Aline shares her approach to building relationships, which involves “not putting ranks between people” and creating “an environment where [people] can tell their side of the story.” Also, Aline shares about the people she serves, expresses her idea of a better social world, and Abbie and Aline discuss “Next Turns.”

Learn more about Aline and her work at IITA here: https://www.iita.org/iita-staff/aline-mugisho/

Learn more about the CMM Insitute here: https://cmminstitute.org/about-cmmi/

Email me here: storieslived.storiestold@gmail.com