The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) reaffirmed the role of Africa’s youth at its 5th Youth Symposium, under the theme, “Youth in Governance: From Promise to Prosperity.”
The two-day event held on November 10-11 at the Pan-African Parliament convened youth leaders, policymakers, parliamentarians, academics, and development partners from across the continent to foster dialogue on governance, peace and security, economic inclusion, and digital transformation.
Organized under the patronage of South African President H.E. Cyril Ramaphosa, the symposium featured high-profile delegates including APRM CEO Amb. Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre, H.E. Hon. Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi (APRM Focal Point for South Africa), former Seychelles Vice President H.E. Vincent Meriton, and former African Union Commission Chairperson H.E. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.
Participants engaged in keynote addresses, thematic panels, and exhibitions highlighting youth-led innovations. The event concluded with a Youth Declaration and a set of policy briefs aimed at informing the African Governance Report 2027.
In her opening remarks, APRM CEO Amb Rose-Quatre urged the youths and participants to propose actionable solutions in order to drive the AU youth agenda to national levels and have their voices heard.
“The youth are disgruntled and they want change, and this change must happen now,” she said.
Former Seychelles Vice President HE Vincent Meriton in his presentation said that good governance is not a technical exercise but a living process that must engage every citizen, especially our youth.
According to HE Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, former African Union Commission Chairperson, Africans not divided by borders but united by purpose. Our strength lies not in nation-states but in a shared destiny.
“We must beneficiate. We must feed ourselves. We must build what we use,” HE Dlamini-Zuma noted.
Other delegates called the cause an honor to join such an important youth platform vital in shaping Africa’s future. The symposium shows Africa’s commitment to harnessing youth potential for continental progress, aligning with Agenda 2063 goals.
