Youth representatives from across Africa convened in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on August 20-21, 2026, to coordinate their positions ahead of the World Youth Conference scheduled for later this year. The meeting, organized by the African Union and the Burkinabè government, aimed to consolidate the continent's priorities on youth empowerment.
According to the African Union Youth Division, the Ouagadougou consultations focused on three main themes: access to quality education, youth employment and entrepreneurship, and meaningful participation in democratic processes. Delegates from over 30 African countries attended, with many emphasizing the need for stronger continental cooperation to address common challenges.
In her opening remarks, the AU Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Sarah Anyang Agbor, stressed that 'Africa's youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the partners of today.' She called for increased investment in digital skills and vocational training to harness the demographic dividend.
The consultations produced a draft African Youth Declaration, which will be presented at the World Youth Conference. The declaration includes commitments to promote youth-led initiatives, improve access to financing for young entrepreneurs, and ensure that national policies reflect the needs of young people.
The World Youth Conference is expected to bring together thousands of young leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives from around the globe. The African delegation aims to ensure that the continent's voice is heard in shaping the global youth agenda.
