A powerful gathering of young African leaders took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, marking a significant moment in the continent’s journey towards self-determination and justice. The Center for Peace Advocacy and Sustainable Development (CEPASD), alongside the African Union, UNDP Regional Service Centre, and various esteemed partners, proudly hosted the 5th Youth Model African Union (YMAU) Summit.
This summit was not just a meeting; it was a dynamic simulation of the AU’s vital organs, including the AU Assembly, Peace and Security Council, and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. But here’s where it gets intriguing: it was the youth who took the lead, stepping into the shoes of diplomats and policymakers.
The event kicked off with a star-studded opening ceremony, featuring influential figures such as Mrs. Nirina Kiplagat, UNDP Coordinator for Governance and Peacebuilding in Africa, and H.E. Maxy Ogbede, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ethiopia. These speakers inspired the young audience with their words, emphasizing the summit’s role in shaping Africa’s future.
Mr. Augustine Igweshi, the driving force behind YMAU and Executive Director of CEPASD, described the summit as a transformative experience. He highlighted that it goes beyond a mere simulation, empowering African youth to tackle the continent’s challenges head-on. And this is the part most people miss: YMAU is about fostering the next generation of leaders, diplomats, and peacemakers, teaching them to think and act with the AU’s vision.
The simulation provided a unique learning curve, equipping delegates with practical skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and coalition building. Mr. Igweshi emphasized that reparations, the summit’s theme, are not solely about financial compensation but also about restoring justice, dignity, and historical accuracy. He challenged the participants to engage passionately, urging them to see the simulation as a stepping stone to Africa’s youth taking charge of their future.
CEPASD’s initiative has solidified its position as a premier platform for leadership and diplomacy, fostering youth engagement in shaping Africa’s governance and realizing the ambitious Agenda 2063. And the question remains: how will this summit’s impact resonate across the continent, and what role will the youth play in Africa’s journey towards self-empowerment and global recognition?