The African Union (AU) Commission has appointed Ugandan climate activist Vanessa Nakate as the Special Envoy for Youth, in a move aimed at strengthening youth participation in continental decision-making.
The appointment was announced by AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, who commended Nakate for her contributions to climate justice, environmental advocacy and youth mobilisation.
Youssouf said Nakate’s work in amplifying the voices of young people, particularly from Africa and the Global South, had helped highlight the urgency of climate action and the need to involve young people in decisions affecting their present and future.
He said Africa’s youth were indispensable partners in shaping the continent’s future and expressed confidence that Nakate’s experience would strengthen the African Union’s engagement with young people.
“Africa’s youth are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; they are indispensable partners in shaping the continent’s future today,” Youssouf said.
He added that Nakate’s record of climate advocacy and commitment to amplifying youth voices positioned her well to advance the AU’s engagement with young people across the continent.
The Chairperson also thanked the AU selection panel for conducting a rigorous and transparent recruitment process, noting that due diligence was essential in identifying individuals with the integrity, experience and commitment required to advance the Union’s priorities.
Youssouf said he looked forward to working with Nakate to ensure that young Africans’ perspectives and aspirations were reflected in the AU’s policies and programmes.
He emphasised the need to create meaningful opportunities for young people to participate in decision-making, contribute to solutions and influence policies affecting their lives.
The appointment underscores the African Union’s commitment to placing young people at the centre of Africa’s development agenda, recognising their role in promoting peace, regional integration, prosperity and sustainable development.
It also highlights the growing importance of youth leadership in addressing climate change and advancing environmental justice, particularly as African communities continue to grapple with the effects of the climate crisis.
Through her new role, Nakate is expected to help strengthen collaboration between the continental body and young people, ensuring their concerns and aspirations contribute to shaping Africa’s future.
