SDGs can only succeed if they succeed in Africa

The inaugural African Youth Leadership Summit, held in Marrakech, Morocco in September 2017, brought together 124 passionate young people from 25 countries to discuss the critical role of youth in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The summit focused on the theme “SDGs Can Only Succeed if They Succeed in Africa,” emphasizing the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities in achieving these global goals.

Key Themes and Discussions

The summit delved into a wide range of topics related to the SDGs, including:

• Youth Empowerment: The importance of empowering young people as agents of change and providing them with the necessary skills and resources.
• Social Entrepreneurship: The role of social enterprises in addressing pressing social and environmental issues.
• Innovation and Technology: The potential of technology to drive sustainable development and improve the lives of Africans.
• Global Partnerships: The importance of international cooperation and collaboration to achieve the SDGs.
• Sustainable Development Goals in Africa: The specific challenges and opportunities facing Africa in achieving the SDGs, such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and education.

Key Outcomes

The summit resulted in several key outcomes, including:

• A strengthened sense of community and solidarity: Participants forged new connections and built lasting relationships.
• Innovative project ideas: Youth developed creative and impactful projects aimed at addressing the SDGs.
• Increased awareness and understanding: Participants better understood the SDGs and their relevance to Africa.
• Commitment to action: Participants pledged to take action in their communities to promote sustainable development and social change.

Recommendations

The summit participants identified several key recommendations for achieving the SDGs in Africa, including:

• Invest in youth development: Provide young people with the education, skills, and opportunities they need to succeed.
• Foster innovation and entrepreneurship: Support young entrepreneurs and social innovators in developing solutions to pressing challenges.
• Strengthen partnerships: Promote collaboration between governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and international development agencies.
• Prioritize sustainable development: Integrate the SDGs into all development policies and programs.
• Empower women and girls: Recognize the critical role of women and girls in achieving the SDGs.

The African Youth Leadership Summit 2017 was a resounding success, demonstrating Africa’s youth’s passion, commitment, and creativity. The summit provided a valuable platform for young people to share their perspectives, collaborate on solutions, and inspire action towards a more sustainable and equitable future.