KAMPALA, Uganda – Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has officially closed the inaugural Afro-Arab Youth Congress with a powerful call for the youth of Africa and the Arab world to champion ideology, unity, and innovation as the primary tools for achieving peace and prosperity.
The President addressed over 1,000 young leaders gathered at the summit in Munyonyo, Kampala, on Friday, emphasizing their critical role in shaping the future.
“My message to the youth of Africa and the Arab world is to embrace ideology, unity, and innovation as tools for peace and prosperity,” Museveni stated. He underscored the demographic weight of the continent, noting, “Africa’s population currently stands at 1.5 billion and is projected to reach 2.5 billion in the next 30 years. Young people need to understand that they belong to the future of the world. The future lies in the Afro-Arab world.”
During his address, President Museveni highlighted the need for principled leadership, patriotism, and innovation to drive continental development. In a significant pledge to cement the growing partnership, he committed 50 acres of land for the establishment of the Afro-Arab Youth Council’s permanent headquarters in Uganda. The proposed facility is also slated to include cultural and sports facilities.
The congress served as a platform to strengthen regional solidarity, with Kenya’s Vice President, Kithure Kindiki, echoing the focus on youth empowerment. He emphasized that the youth are not just future leaders but are already current changemakers actively driving regional integration in critical areas like markets and job creation.
The event marks a significant step in fostering collaboration between the youth of Africa and the Arab world, positioning them as a unified force for future global progress.
