This foundation paper synthesises existing research related to a food systems transition in Africa, highlighting the opportunities and barriers for youth. This will lead to an analytical framework and research questions to support case study research. The paper consists of three interrelated parts that zoom into various aspects of a just food systems transition. Part 1 conceptualises the different elements of justice that are relevant in a just food systems transition, while part 2 looks at different transition approaches. Part 3 takes the vantage point of youth, looking at the drivers and barriers for green jobs for youth resulting from a food systems transition. Combining the insights from these diverse aspects, the paper presents the research agenda for the case study research.