Youth, Women Inclusion Crucial in Driving AU Agenda 2063 – Prof. Asaolu

Youth, Women Inclusion Crucial in Driving AU Agenda 2063 – Prof. Asaolu

By JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

Chairman of the Governing Council, Africa Union Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, Professor Tunji Asaolu, has noted the pivotal role of youth and women in achieving Africa’s development objectives.

Asaolu made this known in his presentation during the Annual Public Lecture on the implementation of Agenda 2063 and Gala Night, held over the weekend in Abuja.

Themed “Appraising the 11-Year Journey of AU Agenda 2063 and the Way Forward,” the lecture highlighted the need for collective action to ensure sustainable development across the continent by the year 2063.

According to Asaolu, Fostering unity, gender equity, and youth empowerment are essential ingredients in the recipe for Africa’s sustainable development by 2063.

“Youth inclusion is crucial for the successful implementation of Agenda 2063 as young people constitute a significant proportion of Africa’s population. Empowering the youth through education, skills development, entrepreneurship opportunities, and meaningful participation in decision-making processes can drive innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.

“Gender equality and women’s empowerment are fundamental to achieving the goals of Agenda 2063. By promoting gender-inclusive policies and programs that address barriers to women’s participation in the economy, politics, and society, African countries can harness the full potential of women as agents of change and progress. This leads to more inclusive and equitable development outcomes for all,” he suggested

Launched in 2013, Agenda 2063 serves as a comprehensive blueprint aimed at transforming Africa into a global powerhouse.

Asaolu emphasized that the agenda “provides a long-term development roadmap for Africa, guiding policy formulation, resource allocation, and decision-making processes.”

He added that since the adoption of the Agenda, considerable progress has been made, including the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) which aims to boost intra-African trade and economic cooperation. “Regional integration is a key driver of economic growth and development,” said Asaolu.

Despite the strides made, Asaolu outlined several challenges impeding the effective implementation of Agenda 2063. He pointed to “funding constraints” and limited political will as significant barriers.

He therefore urged member states to prioritize the agenda amidst changing political climates and called for enhanced coordination.

“Building the necessary institutional and human capacity at national and regional levels to drive the implementation of Agenda 2063 is crucial. However, many African countries face challenges in terms of skills gaps, technical expertise, and institutional capacity, which hinder the efficient execution of development projects.

“The success of Agenda 2063 hinges on effective coordination and collaboration among African Union member states. However, differing priorities, bureaucratic hurdles, and lack of harmonized policies can create obstacles to seamless cooperation and integration across the continent,” he said.

Ambassadorial Assembly Emphasizes Unity as Key to Africa’s Development

Addressing journalists at the event, the Head of Mission for the AU Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, Amb. Dr. Stephen Joel, reaffirmed the critical importance of unity among African nations in achieving the ambitious goals set out in the AU’s Agenda 2063.

Joel passionately articulated that the Agenda is a vital blueprint designed to emancipate the continent. “This diplomatic organization is dedicated to realizing Agenda 2063, which represents a transformative vision for Africa’s future,” he stated.

He reflected on the historical context of the African Union, explaining how it evolved from the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which focused heavily on seeking reparations and placing blame on external entities. “We have moved beyond the blame game. Now, we must own our future and strive to stand strong alongside other continents,” he emphasized.

He further urged member states to fully embrace the seven aspirations outlined in the Agenda, asserting that if adhered to faithfully, they would pave the way for Africa to emerge as a global superpower. “The truth is, together we are better,” he noted, calling for a national mindset shift that embraces unity while appreciating diversity. “There are no permanent enemies, only permanent friends. We need to seek common ground and work together.”

Additionally, the Chairman of the Health and Social Affairs Committee within the AU Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, Amb. Dr Saadatu Adamu stated that the importance of collective responsibility of all Africans in fostering the continent’s progress.

“The Africa we desire is not the responsibility of one person alone; it involves each and every one of us,” she stated.

Adamu further noted  the necessity of promoting Africa’s rich narratives, arguing that creating awareness for a shared vision is essential for achieving meaningful change.

On the topic of the challenges facing African development, Adamu pointed to leadership as a significant barrier. “If we can address our leadership issues and recognize the importance of unity across sectors, we will be able to unlock untold potential within the continent,” she concluded.