Kampala, Uganda | THE BLACK EXAMINER | The Republic of Uganda, in collaboration with the African Union Commission and esteemed development partners, is gearing up to host the grand celebration of Africa Youth Day 2023. This significant event is set to take place on November 1, 2023, at the prestigious Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, Uganda.
Africa Youth Day is a momentous occasion dedicated to celebrating the dynamism, determination, achievements, creativity, and resilience of African youth, both on the continent and in the diaspora. It shines a spotlight on their invaluable contributions to socio-economic development and their pivotal role in shaping a brighter future.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “1 Million Next Level is Knocking: Youth-led Movements that Transcend Borders.” This theme underscores the importance of youth-led initiatives that transcend borders, with the aim of collectively working towards a better future and realizing the aspirations of the Agenda 2063.
The event is made possible through the unwavering support of various development partners, including the European Union in Uganda, UNFPA Uganda, Plan International, Youth for Tax Justice Network Uganda, Habitat for Humanity, and the Africa Youth Federation. The National Youth Council of Uganda also plays a vital role in ensuring the success of Africa Youth Day 2023.
The festivities will encompass a wide range of engaging activities, panel discussions, workshops, and entertainment, all designed to empower and inspire young people to unlock their full potential. Eminent speakers and experts will participate in discussions covering topics related to education and skills development, employment, entrepreneurship, and social innovation. This event serves as a precursor to the unveiling of the African Union’s theme for 2024, which will focus on building resilient and inclusive education.
The celebration aligns with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s commitment to youth engagement and support, providing platforms for idea generation and the exploration of various approaches to human capital development and the youth’s role in national and continental development. On July 4, 2022, during the 3rd APRM Continental Youth Symposium, President Museveni launched the “1 Million Next Level Initiative” at the country level and established a steering committee to oversee its implementation. Uganda was the first country to undertake this process, with the Republic of Burundi and other African nations following suit, engaging with the African Union Commission as the continental cascading secretariat for similar processes. This initiative stems from the African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat’s desire to bring the commission closer to young people and provide a harmonized framework for continental youth development. The “1 Million Next Level Initiative” has now succeeded the African Plan of Action for Youth Empowerment until 2030.
Africa Youth Day 2023 promises to be an event brimming with inspiration, knowledge-sharing, and a sense of unity among the continent’s youth. All young individuals, stakeholders, and organizations are encouraged to attend and be a part of this memorable occasion.
