Africa Must Empower Young Leaders to Drive Growth, Gasho Tells Summit

Zimbabwean Pan-African youth diplomat Kudzai Gasho has urged African governments to prioritise young people in driving economic transformation, cautioning that neglecting investment in human capital could hinder the continent’s progress.

Addressing delegates at the African Youth Leadership Diplomatic Conference 2026 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Gasho challenged leaders to shift from policy promises to concrete action. He emphasised the need for practical measures that equip young people with education, innovation skills, and leadership opportunities.

He highlighted that Africa’s expanding youth population is a major advantage that can fuel economic growth if properly nurtured.

“Africa’s most valuable resource is not only its natural wealth but its people, especially the youth,” he said. “By investing in education, skills development, and innovation, we can unlock inclusive growth that benefits all.”

Gasho also stressed the importance of involving young people in governance and diplomacy, noting that their participation is key to shaping policies that reflect their realities.

“Young people should not just benefit from development initiatives but actively contribute to shaping Africa’s future,” he said. “There is a need for policies that empower them to become leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators capable of transforming the economy.”

The conference, held in Ethiopia’s capital home to the African Union headquarters has brought together youth leaders, diplomats, and policymakers from across the continent to exchange ideas on leadership, diplomacy, and development.