Uganda has taken a bold step in championing youth leadership and cross-continental collaboration with the launch of the Afro-Arab Youth Congress 2025, officially unveiled by Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, the State Minister for Gender, Labour, and Social Development in charge of Children and Youth Affairs.
The landmark event is set to take place from October 6 to 10 at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala under the theme “Amplifying Youth Voices for Peace, Unity, and Development.”
It will bring together over 1,000 delegates from both African and Arab nations, offering a rare opportunity for young leaders, policymakers, and development partners to forge lasting partnerships.
“This Congress is your chance to connect, innovate, and lead a united Afro-Arab future,” declared Minister Balaam during the launch. “Your voices will not only be heard but will shape policies for sustainable change.”
The Afro-Arab Youth Congress 2025 will feature high-level keynote addresses, innovation exhibitions, and breakout sessions covering essential topics such as peacebuilding, climate resilience, digital inclusion, and entrepreneurship.
One of the most anticipated highlights will be the official launch of a fundraising campaign to support the construction of the Afro-Arab International Headquarters in Uganda.
The ambitious development will include a modern office block, a world-class international sports stadium, a hotel, a University of Science and Technology, and a Cultural Heritage Centre dedicated to both African and Arab traditions.
A non-elective General Assembly is also planned during the Congress to strengthen the governance and constitutional structure of the Afro-Arab Youth Council.
Minister Balaam emphasized the significance of the event to Uganda’s youth, urging them to seize the opportunity.
He said the Congress will provide a platform for young Ugandans to network with their international counterparts, exchange ideas, and actively contribute to shaping youth-centric development frameworks.
He called on the media to widely cover the Congress and spotlight Uganda’s growing role in global youth dialogue and leadership.
“We are building bridges between Africa and the Arab world, ensuring our youth are architects of peace and progress,” he stated.
In his address, Minister Balaam highlighted how government programs have laid the foundation for youth development in Uganda.
“Through the Youth Livelihood Program, we’ve empowered thousands of young Ugandans to launch businesses, turning dreams into reality,” he noted.
He further cited the establishment of vocational hubs like the Mengo Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub, where over 460 youth have been trained in trades such as tailoring, hairdressing, welding, and carpentry.
The National Youth Policy has also expanded access to reproductive health services and entrepreneurial grants, helping young people across the country to become more self-reliant and economically productive.
Uganda’s proactive efforts to position itself at the heart of the Pan-African youth movement are in line with its leadership in continental matters.
This includes the Kampala Declaration of the Africa Youth Congress 2025, which reaffirmed support for the liberation of Western Sahara.
With unemployment still affecting over 70% of Uganda’s youth, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, the Congress arrives at a critical time.
It promises practical solutions through workshops and policy dialogues, equipping participants with skills in digital technology and entrepreneurship.
As challenges like climate change and global conflict escalate, Uganda’s hosting of the Afro-Arab Youth Congress 2025 underscores its emerging role as a beacon for youth empowerment, regional unity, and inclusive development.
Backed by strong government commitment and a vibrant youth population, Uganda stands ready to host a transformative gathering that may well define the next generation of Afro-Arab cooperation.
