OfficeYouthEnvoy

The appointment of the African Union Chairperson’s Youth Envoy is in line with decision made duringf the 30th Session of the African Union Heads of State and Government Assembly in 2018, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission, announced the appointment of an African Union Youth Envoy as part of the Cabinet of the Chairperson, serving as the youngest diplomat for youth representation. The creation of this position derived from the report of Ministers produced during the second Specialized Technical Committee on Youth, Culture, and Sports (STC-YCS 2) in 2016, and specifically decision 25 thereof, which called for the appointment of an African Unionf Youth Envoy to assist in championing youth development issues in Africa through the implementation of the African Youth Charter. The appointment of the African Union Youth Envoy is in line with the report of Ministers during the 2nd Specialized Technical Committee (STC) on Youth Culture and Sports (STC-YCS 2), specifically decision 25 thereof, which “CALLS for the appointment of an AU Youth Envoy to assist in championing youth development issues in Africa and REQUESTS the AUC to develop terms of reference for the same for a 2-year duration.

• Ms Aya Chebbi, Republic of Tunisia was appointed by the Chairperson of the Commission as AU Youth Envoy form November 2019 –September 2021
• Ms. Chido Cleopatra Mpemba, Republic of Zimbabwe was appointed by the Chairperson of the Commission in November 2021 – ongoing

Some of the key responsibilities of the Office of the Youth Envoy include:

Advocacy: The Youth Envoy advocates for policies, programs, and initiatives that promote youth development, inclusion, and participation in decision-making processes within the AU and its member states.

Engagement: The office engages with young people, youth organizations, and stakeholders to gather input, concerns, and ideas from the youth population, ensuring that their voices are heard at various levels of governance

Capacity Building: The Youth Envoy's office supports initiatives that enhance the skills, knowledge, and capabilities of young Africans. This can include providing training, mentorship, and educational opportunities.

Partnerships: The office collaborates with governments, international organizations, civil society, and other stakeholders to create partnerships and networks that focus on addressing youth-related challenges.

Youth-Led Initiatives: The office supports and promotes African youth-led initiatives and projects that contribute to the development of Africa.

Aspiration 6 of Agenda 2063 calls for “An Africa, whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children.”