This archive report was first published on 14 December 2019.
At the Kusi Ideas Festival in Kigali, Rwanda, President Kagame emphasized the importance of collective action in achieving Africa's development goals.
Speaking alongside other African leaders, including DR Congo President Felix Tshisekedi and African Union Commission chairperson Moussa Mahamat, President Kagame noted that the continent has made progress in recent years but still faces significant challenges.
“The start is good and the foundation is laid. We need to push ourselves to fulfill what we have agreed on the reforms so that we can secure a good future for Africa’s young people,” President Kagame said.
He added that the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement, signed recently, is a key step towards fast-tracking Africa's development and securing a prosperous future for the continent's youth.
President Tshisekedi emphasized the need for investments in practical education, infrastructure, and opportunities for young people, citing his country's efforts to roll out free education and join the East African Community.
Mr. Odinga, the African Union special envoy for Infrastructure, challenged countries to empower youths with the right education and skills, while Ms. Songwe, the executive secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa, called for Africa to position itself as a hub for innovation and ideas.
Published on December 14, 2019
