Visiting youth delegations from South Africa, Zambia, and Botswana, representing the Southern African Development Community (SADC), have accused the African Union (AU) of developing ineffective youth policies that hinder the growth and development of young people across the continent.
Lorraine Khoza, from the South African Youth Council, which comprises various member organisations, voiced these concerns while chairing a panel discussion on youth action for building peace and security at the Afro-Arab Youth Congress at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
Khoza told Bbeg Media on the sidelines of the meeting that they are not yet convinced that youth voices will be heard when there is still insufficient youth representation at international levels, such as the African Union and the Arab League.
“Youths need to be heard to secure funding and other forms of support at all costs,” Khoza said.
She said youth unemployment remains a significant issue in South Africa, driving many young people towards drug abuse and excessive alcohol consumption, which often leads to gender-based violence. This has resulted in the tragic loss of many young girls and women who suffer from such abuses.
Kitso Thirira from Botswana, representing the Put Youths On organisation, began his remarks with the slogan “PULA,” to which his colleagues responded, “Haine,” meaning “rain brings blessings” in their country.
He called for action-oriented youth policies, noting that the lack of youth representation has led to an unclear youth policy development agenda. While his organisation has worked to nurture discipline and good conduct among young people at the grassroots level, Thirira acknowledged that much more needs to be done.
He praised the Afro-Arab Youth Congress for fostering collaborations to achieve sustainable development goals, aligning with the AU’s Agenda 2063. Despite challenges hindering Ugandan youths, Thirira commended President Museveni and his government for their goodwill, financial, and technical support for the congress.
Sandrine Umutoni, Rwanda’s minister of state for Youth, described the Afro-Arab Youth Congress as an eye-opener for promoting peace, security, and prosperity in Afro-Arab development. She emphasised that focusing on community safety is crucial for ensuring a bright future for young people.
The delegates congratulated Uganda on its 63rd Independence Day anniversary, set to be celebrated today (October 9).
