A distinguished lineup of Africans and international leaders have called on young people across the continent to take bold steps in shaping Africa’s future with developmental programs.
This, the leaders believe, will drive the continent’s economic development; promotes democratic governance and champions accountability.
The call to action was made during the official opening of the 12th Cohort of the Young Political Leadership School Africa (YPLSA), held on Monday June 9, 2025, in Monrovia.
The week-long event, organized under the theme: “Unlocking Africa’s Potential: Youth Leadership for Economic Development and Political Stability,” is bringing together participants from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia.
Omolara T. Balogun, Head of Policy Influencing and Advocacy at the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) in Ghana, emphasized the growing importance of youth participation in governance.
Balogun applauded Naymote Partners for Democratic Development for sustaining YPLSA as a critical platform for nurturing democratic values across Africa.
Alphia Faith Kemokai, Africa Regional Manager at Naymote, described the program as a space for cultural exchange, leadership training and the building of lasting cross-border networks among young changemakers.
Tititope Tawakkaaltu Anifowoshe, a YPLSA alumna and director of programs at the Presidency of Nigeria, urged participants to use the platform and deepen their understanding of each other’s national contexts; to promote unity and collaboration across the continent.
Diplomatic figures at the event echoed strong support for the initiative.
For example, Swedish Ambassador to Liberia, encouraged participants to rise above political divides and focus on responsible leadership and self-development.
“Freedom of expression comes with responsibility,” the Ambassador said. “Accountability and standing up for your community must remain a cornerstone of your leadership journey.”
Sweden, the Ambassador assured, remains committed to supporting Naymote’s efforts in uniting and empowering the next generation of African leaders.
Ireland’s Ambassador to Liberia, Gerald Considine, commended the country’s recent election to the UN Security Council. She reaffirmed Ireland’s partnership with Naymote.
“Our collaboration with Naymote is critical,” said Amb. Considine, adding: “We remain committed to supporting your country’s young leaders at all levels.”
The UN Resident Coordinator in Liberia, Christine Umutoni, reminded participants that the training is not only about leadership skills, but identity, unity and the powerful role young people play in shaping Africa’s destiny.
In the same spirit, EU Ambassador to Liberia, Nano Deprez, urged youth leaders to amplify their voices on critical issues and actively seek representation in decision-making spaces.
“Young people must claim their space in leadership,” she said, noting: “Political representation matters.”
In her keynote address, ECOWAS Resident Representative to Liberia, Josephine A. Nkrumah, hailed Naymote for a decade of nurturing young leaders across the continent.
“ECOWAS is proud to be associated with YPLSA,” she said.
Madam Nkrumah: “This platform directly supports our Youth Policy and is critical to Africa’s future.”
She challenged participants to uphold integrity, reject dishonest political practices, and redefine leadership in Africa.
“Africa needs honest, committed, and visionary leaders,” Amb. Nkrumah said.
“Change begins with mindset and behavior. Protect your character and lead with purpose.”
The 12th Cohort of YPLSA runs from June 9 to June 13, 2025, at a resort in Monrovia.
The program seeks to equip young leaders from political parties, civil society and community organizations with the tools and networks needed to make meaningful contributions to Africa’s democratic and development agendas.