Addis Ababa, August 12, 2026 (FMC) — African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has called for Africa’s young people to move from the margins to the center of decision-making, stressing that their voices, ideas and aspirations must shape the continent’s shared future.
In a statement marking International Youth Day, Youssouf said youth empowerment has been one of his priorities since the outset of his campaign for the leadership of the African Union Commission. He reaffirmed his commitment to translating that priority into meaningful opportunities for young Africans to participate, lead and contribute to the continent’s development and integration.
The Chairperson stressed that Africa’s youth are not simply the leaders of tomorrow but partners and leaders today. He said empowering them requires sustained investment in education, skills, entrepreneurship and employment, alongside meaningful participation in decision-making.
He also called for stronger partnerships among governments, institutions, the private sector and young people to create an enabling environment in which Africa’s youth can realize their full potential.
Youssouf emphasized that youth empowerment is a continental imperative, saying Africa’s future will be shaped by how effectively it invests in, listens to and creates opportunities for its young people today. He reaffirmed his commitment to placing youth at the center of the African Union’s efforts to advance an inclusive, peaceful and prosperous continent.