Faced with the challenges of the 21st century, African youth are positioning themselves as drivers of change and sources of new ideas. On 9 December, at the University of Lomé, a group of these young Africans took the floor to outline their vision for a new, ambitious and resolutely sovereign Africa. The discussions highlighted their central role in building a strong, united and sovereign Africa. Between aspirations, commitments and challenges, this generation has an ambitious vision of modern pan-Africanism. Its mobilisation marks a turning point for the future of the continent.
Following the opening of the 9th Pan-African Congress, the meeting with students and young people on 9 December 2025 at the University of Lomé placed African youth at the centre of discussions. In a continent where more than 60% of the population is under 25, young people appear to be the true architects of the future. Gathered around the theme ‘The Pan-African ideal in the current context: challenges for young people and prospects for a new, strong and sovereign Africa’, the discussions highlighted the energy and creativity of young people. They appear to be key players in the construction of a truly sovereign and independent Africa.
Firstly, I think that young people have a very important, indispensable role to play in promoting Pan-Africanism, because, you know, they are developing the terms, but it is up to us to take over tomorrow. As he said, we are the present, but also the future. Having developed this theme, if we do not become aware, if the words are not put in place to enable young people to educate themselves and carry this torch high, I do not think that in the future we will be able to talk about Pan-Africanism.
Stella Amoussou, Law student at the University of Lome
The discussions focused on empowering young people and making them more accountable, with 78% of Africans aged 18 to 24 planning to start their own business within the next five years. Their role in innovation, the economy and governance is crucial, with 22% of the working population already running a new business. Despite challenges such as access to capital, an obstacle cited by 61% of young people, entrepreneurship remains a strategic lever. Training, support and creativity are therefore key drivers for building a more resilient Africa.
I have been involved in the reinvention of Pan-Africanism, contributing to the resolution of the challenges facing Pan-Africanism today, including the opening up of our borders, the rise of terrorism and imperialism. These are all important issues that young people need to think about, write about and produce work on in order to contribute to the decolonisation of knowledge and help assert Africa’s place in the world.
Roland Kassi, Member of the African Youth Delegation – Chad
Young people need to be fully aware of what is lacking; they need to understand the flaws in the current system, the old ways, as they say, so that they can now use innovation and commitment to come up with a real, concrete, workable solution to build a sovereign Africa.
Larissa Kadanga, Medical student at the University of Lome
The speakers called for collective mobilisation around a modern pan-Africanism, adapted to current realities and the expectations of young people. With 75% of the African population expected to be under 35 by 2030, this demographic dynamic constitutes an unprecedented force. They called for the creation of strong networks of young leaders capable of influencing continental decisions. Africa’s future is already being shaped by these bold, innovative and determined generations.
