By: Marian Magdalene Bangura
Young leaders, policymakers, and development experts from across the region converged in Freetown for the West Africa Youth Symposium, a high-level forum aimed at advancing youth-driven solutions to some of Africa’s most pressing challenges in energy, health, and agriculture.
The symposium, held on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Miatta Conference Centre, was organized by Future Perspectives in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education. The event featured a keynote address by Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice President of Nigeria and Co-Founder of Future Perspectives.
Professor Osinbajo emphasized the importance of intergenerational dialogue in addressing the complex challenges facing the continent, including climate change. He encouraged young people to see themselves as problem-solvers and active contributors to sustainable development.
“Inclusivity is not just about gender; it is also about bringing different generations to the table,” he said, noting that meaningful progress requires experienced leaders and young innovators to work together to shape solutions for Africa’s future.
He further stressed the need for Africa to mobilize its own resources to support youth-led initiatives.
“International funding alone will never be enough. Africa must also mobilize its own resources. The private sector on the continent needs to play a bigger role in supporting youth innovation,” he added.
The gathering brought together emerging leaders from diverse professional backgrounds to examine the role of youth in shaping the continent’s development agenda. Discussions centered on youth leadership and African ownership, with participants exploring practical strategies to strengthen Africa’s capacity to address its own development priorities.
Panel sessions and presentations focused on critical themes including energy access, healthcare innovation, and sustainable agriculture, while also addressing cross-cutting issues such as gender equity, menstrual health, environmental justice, and youth participation in policymaking.
Participants also explored topics such as climate adaptation and domestic capital mobilization, climate-resilient infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and climate justice, highlighting the importance of empowering young people to lead transformative change across the continent.
Renowned speakers and experts shared insights into the economic and environmental realities affecting Africa, while proposing innovative approaches to address these challenges. The symposium also showcased youth-led initiatives and creative solutions, demonstrating the growing capacity of Africa’s younger generation to drive sustainable development.
Organizers noted that the event was designed to inspire and empower young leaders to take ownership of Africa’s future, equipping them with the knowledge, networks, and platforms needed to influence policy and implement impactful initiatives within their communities.
The West Africa Youth Symposium concluded with renewed calls for greater youth participation in decision-making processes, emphasizing that Africa’s development will increasingly depend on the creativity, leadership, and resilience of its young population.
