Summit of the Future: Amplifying African Youth Voices
Introduction
In May 2024, the Justice for Africa campaign organized the “Our Future, Our Voice” consultation. This initiative aimed to bring African youth and student-led organizations into global discussions. Positioned before the United Nations Civil Society Conference, its main goal was to ensure Africa’s young population’s voices are heard at the upcoming Summit of the Future.
The “Our Future, Our Voice” Consultation
This consultation was a joint effort by the 100 Million campaign, the All-Africa Students Union, and the Global Student Forum, with support from the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation US. It aimed to gather African youth insights for the Summit’s main outcome document, the ‘Pact for the Future’.
The Imperative of Youth Inclusion
Africa has the world’s youngest population, with over 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s residents under 30. By 2050, projections show that one in four people globally will be African. This highlights the need to include African youth in decisions shaping their futures. They face challenges like limited quality education, high unemployment, and socio-economic inequalities. Addressing these requires not only hearing but also acting upon young Africans’ voices in global policies.
Financing for Sustainable Development
Participants stressed the need for strong financing to achieve sustainable development in Africa. They highlighted the importance of government and private sector collaboration, closing tax loopholes, and digitizing tax systems for transparency. Additionally, they suggested leveraging diaspora resources and advocating for African representation in global funding channels.
Youth Empowerment and Peace-building
The forum highlighted the importance of creating environments that keep African talent and reduce migration. Proposed strategies included encouraging youth involvement in agriculture, promoting skill-building initiatives, and increasing youth participation in policymaking. These measures are vital to harness young Africans’ potential as drivers of peace and development.
Climate Change and Global Challenges
Recognizing climate change’s significant impact on African communities, participants called for greater awareness and local solutions tailored to specific environmental challenges. They emphasized the need for youth involvement in global discussions, urging for concrete commitments and mechanisms to ensure meaningful engagement.
Calls to Action
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has urged African youth to raise their voices in shaping the continent’s development path. ECA’s Executive Secretary, Claver Gatete, highlighted the importance of youth participation in global affairs, especially concerning the Summit of the Future.
Conclusion
The “Our Future, Our Voice” consultation is a significant step toward integrating African youth perspectives into global policy frameworks. As the Summit of the Future approaches, it’s crucial that these insights shape the ‘Pact for the Future’, ensuring Africa’s young generation’s aspirations and challenges are addressed. Active participation of African youth is essential for achieving a sustainable and equitable global future.
