Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 30 January 2016: The intergenerational dialogue between youth, Ministers and Heads of institutions came to an ended on 28th January, 2016 at the African Union Commission (AUC). The meeting provoked critical debates, spaces for reflection, listening and exchange of ideas between young people, Government ministers, business leaders and other policy makers and stakeholders on issues that concern the youth, including how to achieve the demographic dividend and realize Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Discussion included how to ensure the relevance and greater implementation of the African Youth Charter within 54 member States and encourage young people to analyze matters of local policy, guaranteeing their participation at the decision processes with a creative attitude.

There was an interactive dialogue between H.E. Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) and the youths of Africa. The AUC Chairperson urged the youths to mobilize themselves and be organized as a united union. “Youths always talk about their rights but it is important to note that to whom rights are given, also comes responsibilities,” Dr Dlamini Zuma said. It is in that regards that the Chairperson challenged the youths to reflect and brainstorm on their responsibilities in a holistic approach towards the realization of Agenda 2063 and the sustainable development of the continent. “I will organize another youth conference before the end of the year to discuss your responsibilities” the Chairperson informed the eager youth.

The Chairperson further challenged the youths to take an active role in the socio-economic and political affairs of their respective countries because some of the recommendations that were raised were pertinent to the enhancement of the governmental systems. “The Government is not some entity from the sky, Governments are the people you elected and placed in power to be the servant of the people, so ensure that you all take active roles to make informed decisions on the kind of leaders governing the continent.”In addition, the Chairperson talked about the necessity of free movement of people and harmonization of education within the continent.

Regarding the issue of technology in advancing agriculture, Dr Dlamini Zuma, underscored the urgent need for young and innovative minds to come up with strategic initiatives to promote agricultural tools which are attractive yet effective for higher productivity in agriculture. She urged the financial institutions to provide grants available for women and youths to support agriculture. The Chairperson also considered finding a resolution to the request of the youths to have a special youth envoy for peace in the continent.

Addressing the youths during the meeting H.E. Dr. Martial De-Paul Ikounga, Commissioner for Human Resources Science and Technology (HRST) of the AUC thanked the youth for the fruitful two days deliberations and also called on them to be courteous and diplomatic during the interactive session with the Heads of State and government. The Commissioner appreciated and acknowledged the high level dignitaries who took time out of their busy schedule to engage in the dialogue with the young leaders.

Speaking on behalf of the African youths, Ms. Francine Muyumba, President of The Pan African Union (PYU), presented the recommendations after the 2 days deliberations. She spoke of how the youths are very grateful to H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma for always availing herself during the intergenerational dialogues.

She highlighted the five thematic areas of concern raised by the youths during their dialogue, including: the economic rights of youths and women, youth participation in peace building, education, harnessing the demographic dividend and peace and security in the continent. Ms. Francine further elaborated on the issues of exploring avenues of investment, agriculture, strong employment value, business development and services which are youths friendly. In addition the youths call upon the Heads of state and government to ratify the youth charter.

HB/ EAT

For further information:

Directorate of Information and Communication | African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@african-union.org I Website: www.au.int I Addis Ababa | Ethiopia

Pamela Charidza I Communications Officer I Youth Division I charidzap@africa-union.org

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Directorate of Information and Communication
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Addis Ababa | Ethiopia