African Youth Day – Celebrating Potential, Nurturing Futures

By Metohuey Adoglo

On November 01, 2023 – annually,  the African Union Commission is commemorates the “African Youth Day”  throughout the month of november, celebrating the invaluable contributions of Africa’s youth.

Africa’s youth, a colossal demographic of over 420 million individuals aged 15 to 35, are a wellspring of potential and innovation. They are the architects of Africa’s future, holding the keys to prosperity and progress. How can we unlock this vast potential and empower these young minds? African Youth Day provides an opportunity to ponder these questions as we celebrate youth throughout the month.

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The African Youth Charter, adopted in 2006, established November 1 as “African Youth Day (AYD).” This day is a platform to amplify the voices of the youth and promote awareness, commitment, and investment in their future. It also aims to increase their participation, foster partnerships, and enhance intercultural exchanges among young people.

Agenda 2063, the African Union’s development blueprint, emphasizes the role of youth in achieving its aspirations. Aspiration 6 specifically underscores that Africa’s progress relies on its young population. With this in mind, His Excellency Musa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, initiated the “One Million Next Level (1mNL)” project. This groundbreaking initiative intends to provide 300 million young Africans with opportunities in health, education, employment, entrepreneurship, and engagement.

The 1 Million Next Level initiative promotes youth development in Africa, focusing on knowledge-building, leadership roles, and human capital nurturing. The core principles include Pan-Africanism, strategic partnerships, and Africa-centric innovation driven by the continent’s youth.

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Under the theme “1 Million Next Level is Knocking: Youth-led Movement that Transcends Borders,” the African Union Commission is commemorating African Youth Day 2023 throughout the month, celebrating the invaluable contributions of Africa’s youth. The activities aim to empower young people, create platforms for networking and idea sharing, and highlight their roles in building an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa.

The month’s activities include recorded video messages, youth forums, profiling accomplished youth, skills and capacity development workshops, community service projects, and youth recognition and awards. Each of these activities serves as an opportunity to support Africa’s youth and enhance their personal and professional development.

African nations, UN agencies, development partners, youth-led organizations, and private enterprises are encouraged to participate in these celebrations by tailoring events that suit their resources and logistical capacities.

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As we celebrate African Youth Day throughout this month, let us recognize the profound impact these young individuals can have on our continent’s future. The “One Million Next Level” initiative reflects the commitment of the African Union and its partners to nurture the talents of our youth. By empowering them with knowledge, skills, and opportunities, we are nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. So, let us embark on this journey to celebrate their accomplishments and support their dreams, for in the aspirations of our youth, Africa’s brighter future takes shape.