African leaders have called for a renewed commitment to empowering the next generation to take the lead in key sectors such as agriculture, health, climate resilience and diplomacy, stressing that Africa’s vast human capital must be harnessed to shape the continent’s future and assert its influence globally.
This call to action was made during a virtual global forum hosted by Professor Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, former Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations and 74th President of the UN General Assembly. The forum, themed “Africa Rising on Africa Day 2025: Innovation, Heritage, and Hope”, was held in Washington, D.C., and brought together thought leaders to examine pressing issues such as democracy, migration, population growth, and regional peace and security.
“Africa’s vast human capital must be empowered to drive structural transformation and global engagement on equal terms,” Prof. Muhammad-Bande said, emphasizing the urgency of preparing young Africans to lead across vital sectors.
He also highlighted the significance of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development. According to him, the continent must pursue democratic governance that reflects African realities, invest long-term in education, science, and innovation, and promote self-reliance as a foundational principle.
Addressing conflict and governance, Prof. Muhammad-Bande cited the crisis in Sudan as a pressing example, urging for stronger, more coordinated interventions by the African Union and regional blocs.
He stressed that Africa must “shape global responses to climate change and public health in line with its own realities and priorities.”
In a related statement, Joi John, Co-Founder of the Belcrest Institute, challenged prevailing narratives around African migration. “Migration is not alien to Africa; the real task is to build systems that make staying as viable and rewarding as going,” she said. “Africa is not a passive participant in global affairs—we are contributors to world civilizations, past, present, and future.”
The forum concluded with a rallying call to position Africa’s youth as architects of a resilient, innovative, and sovereign future—rooted in heritage but boldly shaping the global agenda.