Summit Participants Highlight Immense Potential of Continent’s Youth  

Addis Ababa, April 8, 2025 (ENA) --- Last week, Ethiopia hosted a significant Pan-African Summit under the theme, “Unlocking the Power of Youth for a Prosperous Africa.”

This pivotal gathering brought together numerous dynamic and passionate African youth, who stressed that the continent's future lays on its rapidly growing youth population.

Toko Algere, representing the Angola National Youth Council, highlighted the immense potential of Africa's youth.

 

He stated, “The youth are a powerful segment of Africa, brimming with brilliant ideas and boundless energy that can transform the continent into a better place.”

However, he acknowledged the myriad challenges young Africans face and urged governments across the continent to address these obstacles.

Algere further stressed the critical importance of investing in the youth to unlock their full potential.

Neema Abdikadir, Vice Chairperson for Inclusion and Engagement on the Commonwealth Youth Council’s Executive Committee, from Kenya commended the Ethiopian government for its initiative in convening Africa's brightest minds.

She expressed optimism about the declarations made, the dialogues held, and the actionable ideas generated during the summit.

She asserted, “It is time for young people to assume leadership positions. We can implement these ideas if we are in power.”

Neema added, “Good governance must be the top priority, and we can drive this change when we hold leadership roles.”

She also addressed the significant challenges confronting Africa's youth, urging governments to “extend financial support and eliminate bureaucratic hurdles” to empower young people.

The Chairperson of Botswana's National Youth Council, Millicent sethaile, praised the remarkable achievements of African youth in recent years.

 

She remarked, “African youth are becoming more courageous, countries have changed parliaments, countries have changed presidents, countries have changed political parties that have been ruling for years and this is because of young people.

I think that alone goes to show how much young people are courageous.” She underscored the necessity for youth to take on leadership roles, stating, “Until young people are seated at the table, we will not see meaningful change.”

Furthermore, Millicent emphasized the importance of collaboration among African youth to transform the continent. She concluded with a powerful message: “We can realize the Africa we envision. The Africa we want is within our hand because Africa is young.”