The African Union (AU) has appointed H.E. Gen. Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi, as its Champion of the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) Agenda.
This appointment recognizes his leadership and commitment to fostering peace and empowering young people across the continent. With more than 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, the youth are a critical force for shaping Africa’s future. However, the continent still faces challenges in peace and security, including armed conflicts, political instability, and the rise of extremist groups, which disproportionately impact youth, women, and other vulnerable populations.
The AU’s efforts to mainstream youth contributions to peace and security are reflected in several initiatives. These include the African Charter on Youth (2006), the Youth for Peace Africa (Y4P) Program, the Continental Framework on Youth, Peace, and Security (CFYPS), and the institutionalization of the Office of the AU Youth Envoy.
The appointment of H.E. Gen. Ndayishimiye as AU Champion further amplifies the focus on youth-driven peace-building efforts.
Key Initiatives and Achievements:
Since the adoption of the CFYPS, the AU has made strides in empowering young people to engage in peace and security initiatives. Notable progress includes:
The operationalization of the Wise Youth Network to support conflict prevention and mediation.
Another one is the completion of guidelines for developing and implementing National Action Plans (NAPs) on YPS.
The commencement of NAPs development processes in several member states and the launch of the 3rd Cohort of African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAPs) is also another achievement.
Despite these advancements, only two AU member states, Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo, have successfully adopted NAPs on YPS. To address this, the AU’s Peace and Security Council (PSC), in its 1243rd meeting on November 1, 2024, emphasized the need for member states to intensify efforts to develop and implement youth-centered NAPs.
The 3rd Continental Dialogue on YPS to be held in Bujumbura:
As part of efforts to strengthen youth participation in peacebuilding, the AU Commission, in collaboration with the Government of Burundi, is organizing the 3rd Continental Dialogue on YPS. This event will be held from December 12 to 13, 2024, in Bujumbura under the theme, “Empowering African Youth for Peace: Education and Enhanced Coordination as a Catalyst for the Implementation of the YPS Agenda.”
The dialogue will bring together key stakeholders to assess progress, identify challenges, and explore strategies for mainstreaming peace education in school curriculums and mobilizing resources for YPS initiatives. Over 1,200 participants, including policymakers, young leaders, and representatives of international institutions, will attend.
A Renewed Focus on Education and Peace
In line with the AU’s theme for 2024, “Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century,” the dialogue will also explore integrating peace education into school curriculums. This approach aims to equip young Africans with the skills and values needed for effective peacebuilding and national development.
The appointment of H.E. Gen. Ndayishimiye as AU Champion underscores Africa’s recognition of the pivotal role of youth in creating a peaceful, secure, and prosperous future. His leadership is expected to further galvanize efforts to implement the YPS Agenda and inspire young Africans to actively contribute to the continent’s development.