By: Sainabou Sambou
The Young African Global Goals network, a pan-African platform focused on empowering young professionals, convened a youth summit on February 21, 2025, at the Nations Youth Parliament in The Gambia. The summit aimed to reinforce young leaders’ commitment to fostering Africa’s transformation through collaboration, innovation, and leadership.
Kelechi Ndieze, the Global President of Young African Global Goals, addressed the attendees, highlighting the necessity for Africans to take ownership of their future. “We must rewrite our story and build the Africa we desire,” Ndieze stated.
He emphasized the importance of transitioning from a consumer mentality to a productive one, referencing the strategic interests of global superpowers, including the U.S. and France, regarding Africa.
The summit provided a platform for young leaders to share ideas, discuss challenges, and propose solutions to accelerate the continent’s development, reinforcing their role as key stakeholders in shaping Africa’s future.
Kelechi Ndieze addressed several key issues impacting the continent, including trade barriers, education quality, and economic policies. He urged attendees to think beyond national boundaries and foster strong African networks, stating, “Economic growth depends on open borders and regional cooperation.”
He advocated for easier travel across the continent, citing the European Union’s Union’s model of internal mobility.
Mary K. Badjie, Executive Secretary of the Young African Global Goals network and country supervisor for The Gambia, emphasized the significance of unity for Africa’s progress.
Inspired by a successful event in Nigeria the previous year, she expressed her desire to host the summit in The Gambia to engage young Gambians in the transformative movement. “We must break the cycle of political divisions and work together for a better future,” she remarked.
Basiru Jaye, Program Officer for the National Youth Council, called for a shift in mindset, arguing that Africa’s future hinges on proactive actions today rather than attributing challenges to historical factors like colonialism.
He also highlighted the need to move away from reliance on government jobs and promote a robust private sector driven by innovation and entrepreneurship.
Fatima Muloshi, CEO of Gambia Youth Chamber of Commerce and Industry, pointed out the challenges young entrepreneurs face, including issues of formalization and a lack of financial literacy.
The summit concluded with a collective call to action for young Africans to prioritize skills development, collaboration, and innovation as they work toward shaping the continent’s future.
