Kigali hosts african youth symposium

Youths from several African nations under the flagship of African Youth United for Change (AFYUCh) are in Rwanda, for a two-day conference.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Youths from several African nations under the flagship of African Youth United for Change (AFYUCh) are in Rwanda, for a two-day conference.

The meeting aims to inspire African youths into leadership as a way of tackling challenges faced by the continent. 

Speaking to The New Times Akin Rotimi, the president of AFYUCh , revealed that the crusade was brought to Rwanda as part of the efforts to reach out and involve youth from all corners of the continent.

"We brought the crusade to Rwanda in an attempt to facilitate a wider benefit from AFYUCh activities and bring on board Rwandan youths in a bid to diversify participation of African youth in this cause,” observed Rotimi.

"We are here to build leadership and conflict resolution potential amongst young people in Rwanda,” he added.

Among the aspects to tackle in the participatory symposium include how young people can nurture their leadership potentials for a positive impact, building self confidence and independent decision making as a way forward for a positive united African destiny.

Rotimi noted that Rwandan youth they are enthusiastic and friendly.

"I have liked the spirit of patriotism in Rwanda, the youth here seem enthusiastic about the betterment of their country which is a good start for a greater African benefit,” he said.

Aaron Kironde, the head of AFYUCh East African wing observed that for a long time African youth looked so much on foreign dependence and expected a lot from their governments in terms of jobs and survival.

"It is high time we changed the status quo and ignite our potentials and transform them into constructive actions for the continent,” said Kironde.

The group will also head to Burundi on Wednesday for a tour.
The meeting has drawn participants from; Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Burundi..

Ends