The African continent looked inward and adopted regional framework for youth issues in 1995 during the head of government meeting in Banjul, The Gambia, leading to the African Youth Charter. The Charter provides framework for advancing the cause of development alongside youth participation and involvement, and became mandatory for all member States of the AU to adopt its definition and practical action plan for youth development.
In same vein, most African countries were signatory to the Lisbon declaration on youth policies which encourages national action on youth matters in the global context. However, the level of commitments on youth charter and youth policies across Africa remains critical and not encouraging. Africa has not fully integrated youth development into national development scheme – youths are seen more as problems rather than solutions. It is sad to note that Africa remains at the bottom of table of continents that are not prioritising youth issues and found wanting at implementing global agreements on young people.
Efforts need to be intensified to ensure a rapid change in youth matters across Africa. AfriNYPE is taking the challenge to awaken Africa’s member States of their duties and responsibilities to youth. This can only be achieved by persistent efforts. Youth policy matter is particularly central to successes in all other areas within which 15 priority areas have been identified in the global call.