Djibouti | 04 November 2025 |
The 5th Pan-African Youth Forum (PAYF2025) commenced in Djibouti on November 4, 2025, with enthusiasm and energy, celebrated through a vibrant cultural performance during the Opening Ceremony. This year’s theme, “From Aspiration to Action: Youth as Catalysts for Sustainable Development,” sets a powerful tone for the three-day event, highlighting the pivotal role of youth in shaping a sustainable future for Africa. The Forum is a flagship program for the African Union Commission Women, Gender, Development and Youth Directorate.
As delegates gathered, the forum opened with a critical review of the African Youth Charter, focusing on its implementation and relevance in today’s dynamic landscape. Key discussions centered around the AU #1mNextLevel Initiative, aimed at fostering youth empowerment and involvement in governance and decision-making processes. The highlight of the opening day was the High-Level Leadership Panel and Youth Town Hall, where influential leaders and passionate youth engaged in dialogue on pressing issues. The discussions emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to address challenges faced by the youth, including unemployment, health, and education.
Looking forward to tomorrow, November 5, participants can expect a full day packed with impactful sessions. The agenda includes parallel sessions on Peacebuilding, Youth Employment, Health, Education, and the AU–EU Youth Lab. Additionally, the AUC Career Fair will provide a platform for networking and professional development, while sessions focused on Innovation & Leadership aim to inspire and equip young leaders with the skills needed to drive change.
The forum is attended by youth representatives from across Africa, Youth Councils, Youth Organisatios along with partners, government officials from various African countries, and representatives from key organizations including the African Union Commission, UNDP, AUDA-NEPAD, the Pan-African Youth Union (PYU), the AU-EU Youth Lab, the Afro-Arab Youth Council (AAYC), and regional organizations such as the Southern Africa Youth Forum (SAYoF) and the East Africa Ambassador Platform, to mention just a few.
The #PAYF2025 serves as a crucial platform for youth to voice their aspirations, share innovative ideas, and collaborate on solutions that will contribute to sustainable development across the continent. As the forum progresses, it promises to foster meaningful connections and ignite a collective movement towards a brighter future for Africa’s youth.
