1, At the ECOWAS Youth Summit 2025 Theme: The Role of the Youth in Advancing ECOWAS Vision 2050
On May 29, 2025
R-L Mr Dipo Odebowale, Director Diaspora Commission, Mandy Demechi-Asagba President African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), His Excellency, Dr. Tasie Njemonu Daniel, the Ambassador to Benin Republic and the Director General of International College for Diplomatic Affairs and Dr. Mrs Abolarin Yetunde, the Principal of Redeem Secondary School
2, R-L Abolarin Yetunde and Mandy Asagba Esq
The ECOWAS Vision 2050 agenda focuses on transforming the regional landscape for peace and prosperity. The vision is centered around “ECOWAS of the Peoples: Peace and Prosperity for All”. This suggests the agenda likely encompasses key areas such as
– Peace and Security: Promoting regional stability and conflict resolution
– Economic Integration: Enhancing economic cooperation and development among member states
– Human Development: Focusing on education, health, and social welfare
– Infrastructure Development: Improving regional infrastructure for trade and commerce
– Governance and Accountability: Strengthening institutions and promoting good governance
– Sustainable Development: Encouraging environmentally friendly practices and sustainable resource management Rise, Unite, and Thrive: Realizing the ECOWAS Vision 2050
Fellow ECOWAS citizens,
The time for transformation is now! Let us join hands to realize the ECOWAS Vision 2050, a beacon of hope for a brighter future. Together, we can:
– Unlock economic potential: Free trade, reduced inequalities, and zero poverty
– Ensure peace and security: Stability and cooperation for a safer region
– Empower our people: Quality education, skills development, and economic empowerment
– Foster unity: One currency, ECOWAS passport, and a shared identity
– Create an enabling environment: Conducive to business, innovation, and growth
This vision is within reach, but it requires our collective effort and determination. We are the chosen generation, created for this moment. Let us seize this opportunity to shape a prosperous future for ourselves and generations to come.
Africa, the giant of the world, ECOWAS – the brain box: Let us unleash our potential, harness our strengths, and forge a brighter future.
Join the movement: “Make it happen*. Let’s rise, unite, and thrive!
HOW CAN INDIVIDUALS CONTRIBUTE TO ACHIEVING VISION 2050
Individuals can contribute to the ECOWAS Vision 2050 in various ways:
Economic Empowerment
1. Entrepreneurship: Start businesses that promote economic growth and job creation.
2. Skills Development: Acquire skills that enhance employability and productivity.
3. Invest in Children and the youth, give them quality education and empower them to unleash their potential
Peace and Security
1. Promote Tolerance: Foster understanding and respect among diverse cultures and communities.
2. Community Engagement: Participate in initiatives that promote peace, security, and social cohesion.
Education and Empowerment
1. Mentorship: Share knowledge and experience with others, especially youth.
2. Advocacy: Raise awareness about important issues, such as education, health, and human rights.
Regional Integration
1. Cultural Exchange: Engage in cultural activities that promote understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
2. Support Regional Initiatives: Participate in ECOWAS programs and initiatives that promote regional integration.
Leadership and Governance
1. Lead by Example: Demonstrate integrity, accountability, and transparency in personal and professional life.
2. Participate in Decision-Making: Engage in community and national decision-making processes.
Innovation and Technology
1. Innovate: Develop solutions that address regional challenges.
2. Adopt Technology: Leverage technology to enhance productivity, efficiency, and access to services.
Amplifying African Youth Voices: A Seat at the Decision Table
African youth are the continent’s most valuable resource, with immense potential to drive growth, innovation, and positive change. However, their voices and perspectives are often underrepresented in decision-making processes.
The youth fought for independence and they got it. Why have our leaders decided to silence the youth and become seat tight leaders refusing to give the youth a chance?
One of the major reasons for the snail speed progress and or retrogression
Why Youth Inclusion Matters:
1. Demographic Dividend: Africa’s youth bulge presents an opportunity for economic growth and development.
2. Fresh Perspectives: Youth bring innovative ideas and new perspectives to the table.
3. Sustainable Future : Youth will inherit the consequences of today’s decisions, so their input is crucial.
Challenges:
1. Limited Representation: Youth are often excluded from decision-making processes.
2. Lack of Opportunities: Limited access to education, training, and employment opportunities.
3. Marginalization: Youth voices are often ignored or dismissed.
Solutions:
1. Youth-Led Initiatives: Support and empower youth-led organizations and initiatives.
2. Inclusive Decision-Making: Ensure youth representation in decision-making processes.
3. Capacity Building: Provide training and capacity-building programs for youth.
4. Mentorship: Pair youth with experienced mentors who can guide and support them.
Benefits:
1. Innovative Solutions: Youth bring new ideas and perspectives to address complex challenges.
2. Increased Engagement: Youth are more likely to engage with and support decisions they had a hand in shaping.
3. Sustainable Development: Youth inclusion can lead to more sustainable and equitable development outcomes.
Call to Action:
1. Create Spaces: Create opportunities for youth to participate in decision-making processes.
2. Listen and Amplify: Listen to youth voices and amplify their perspectives.
3. Empower and Support: Empower and support youth-led initiatives and organizations.
By giving African youth a voice and space at the decision table, we can unlock their potential, drive innovation, and build a brighter future for the continent.
Mandy Demechi- Asagba