About
The African Youth Congress (AYC) was founded on the principles of Pan-Africanism, self-reliance, and cultural preservation, recognizing the urgent need to empower African youth to take an active role in shaping the continent’s future. Historically, Africa has faced numerous challenges, including colonial legacies, economic dependency, and political instability, which have hindered the full realization of its potential. However, the resilience and ingenuity of African youth present a unique opportunity to drive sustainable development and continental unity.
The formation of AYC is rooted in the understanding that Africa’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but also the changemakers of today. While many African nations have established youth programs, there has been a lack of continental coordination and collaboration, leaving young people with limited platforms to influence policies at a Pan-African level. AYC was established to fill this gap by bringing together young leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders to develop actionable solutions that address Africa’s most pressing socio-economic and political challenges.
Over the years, AYC has evolved into a movement that champions African-led solutions, advocating for policies that support youth entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and economic liberation. With a growing network spanning all 54 African countries and the diaspora, AYC has engaged in policy dialogues, leadership development programs, and strategic partnerships with governments, private sector actors, and civil society organizations.
The African Youth Congress also aligns with Agenda 2063, the African Union’s blueprint for an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa. By emphasizing youth engagement and cultural identity as key pillars of development, AYC contributes to the realization of a continent that is self-reliant, technologically advanced, and deeply rooted in its heritage.
1. Objectives of AYC
i. Empowering Youth Leadership and Governance
The African Youth Congress (AYC) seeks to equip young Africans with the necessary leadership and governance skills to actively participate in decision-making at national, regional, and continental levels. Through leadership training programs, mentorship initiatives, and policy dialogues, AYC aims to create a generation of informed and proactive youth who can contribute to shaping policies, driving positive change, and ensuring accountability in governance. By fostering youth engagement in politics and administration, AYC aspires to bridge the gap between young people and leadership structures, ensuring that African youth play a meaningful role in their continent’s development.
ii. Promoting African Identity and Cultural Renaissance
AYC is committed to preserving and modernizing African cultural heritage while integrating it into contemporary governance, education, and social systems. The congress fosters cultural exchange programs, indigenous knowledge promotion, and discussions on how African traditions can coexist with modernity. By celebrating African identity and fostering pride in cultural heritage, AYC seeks to counter the erosion of indigenous values while encouraging innovation that is deeply rooted in African traditions. This objective also promotes the role of art, music, literature, and language in shaping a unified and culturally enriched African society.
iii. Advancing Economic Liberation and Self-Reliance
Economic empowerment is a key focus of AYC, with an emphasis on fostering youth entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and access to capital. The congress advocates for policies that support youth-led businesses, encourage local industries, and promote intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By equipping young people with the necessary financial literacy, business acumen, and innovation skills, AYC envisions a future where African youth drive economic transformation and reduce dependence on foreign aid. Additionally, AYC supports initiatives aimed at land reform, resource ownership, and equitable wealth distribution to ensure economic justice across the continent.
iv. Strengthening Youth Unity and Collaboration
AYC recognizes the importance of regional cooperation in achieving Africa’s developmental goals. The congress facilitates youth networking and collaboration across African countries, encouraging cross-border partnerships in business, education, and governance. By strengthening pan-African solidarity, AYC seeks to create a united front where young Africans work together to address common challenges, advocate for shared interests, and build a prosperous and integrated Africa. This objective also aligns with the ideals of the African Union (AU) and the Agenda 2063 vision of a peaceful and united continent.
v. Enhancing Policy Influence and Good Governance
To ensure that youth voices are heard in decision-making processes, AYC actively engages in policy advocacy and governance initiatives. The congress provides platforms for young leaders to engage with policymakers, contribute to legislative reforms, and champion transparency and accountability in governance. By advocating for youth representation in government structures and policy formulation, AYC aims to institutionalize youth participation in governance, ensuring that policies reflect the aspirations and needs of the continent’s growing youth population.
vi. Promoting Science, Technology, and Innovation
Innovation is a key driver of Africa’s transformation, and AYC is committed to advancing science and technology as tools for economic and social progress. The congress encourages investment in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, research institutions, and digital entrepreneurship. Through partnerships with universities, tech hubs, and industry leaders, AYC supports youth-driven innovations that address Africa’s unique challenges, from agriculture and healthcare to infrastructure and digital finance. By fostering a culture of technological advancement, AYC envisions an Africa that is globally competitive in the digital age.
vii. Advocating for Social Justice and Human Rights
AYC champions the rights of young people by advocating for inclusive development, gender equality, and equal access to opportunities. The congress promotes initiatives that address issues such as youth unemployment, education access, and healthcare equity, ensuring that all young Africans—regardless of gender, background, or economic status—can realize their full potential. Additionally, AYC actively engages in discussions on social justice issues such as land rights, political inclusion, and protection against exploitation. By addressing these challenges, AYC aims to create a fair and just society where every African youth has the chance to thrive.
2. Organisational Structure and Leadership
AYC is headquartered in Kampala, Uganda, and operates as a Pan-African youth movement committed to cultural preservation, economic empowerment, and leadership development. It is patroned by H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Republic of Uganda, and co-patroned by H.E. Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe. These leaders provide guidance and serve as the guiding principles of the organization.