The Cabinet Secretary of Youth Affairs and Sports in Kenya, Ababu Namwamba, opened the 7th edition of YouLead Africa Summit Yesterday (Monday), November 20, 2023. The summit was held at the Bomas of Kenya, Nairobi.
The Cabinet Secretary, joined the summit with former President Jakaya Kikwete. During the summit, he represented President William Ruto at the event.
In a speech on his behalf by the CS, President Ruto called for the involvement of the Youth in the decision and policy-making process. He lauded the YouLead Summit for the impact it had on the Youth of Africa.
“I’m impressed by the immense work YouLead is doing in the East Africa Community and beyond. For young people to be champions of an accountable and value driven Government, it is crucial to have young constituency included in the decision making,” said President Ruto in his speech.
The President added that this would be achieved by giving the Youth of Africa spaces to innovate and freely express themselves. He said it was imperative for Africa to invest in Youth education, skills and health care, which are vital ingredients to a transformed continent.
“The current demographic history of our region requires a whole East Africa Community’s commitment to the development of human capital as this will help the region leapfrog challenges it is confronted with in the modern day,” said the President in his speech delivered by the CS.
While echoing the President’s sentiments, CS Ababu Namwamba lauded the YouLead summit as a platform that brings together young champions. The Young Champions, especially in various fields, spanning business, politics, and peacebuilding, among others.
“This noble undertaking brings together a highly skilled and motivated population, the largest demographic cohort, who are ready to drive Africa’s renaissance. We must capitalize on the potential of this cohort to realize a greater EAC region and the Africa we want,” he said.
The CS challenged the young leaders to seize every opportunity presented to them. “Never underestimate the power of every little step you make. Do not accept to be held back by stereotypes and cliches of being young because if you are good enough, you are old enough,” he quipped.
The Youlead summit was held under the patronage of Jakaya Kikwete. It aimed to recognise and promote Youth participation. The summit was also based on recognising and encouraging young leaders and their initiatives for the nation.