A Zimbabwean national, Chido Mpemba, has been appointed as the African Union (AU)’s new Youth Envoy as part of the regional body’s renewed commitment to amplify the voices of young people and broaden their participation in the development of the Continent.
In a statement, the AU Commission Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat said Mpemba was selected following a rigorous recruitment process of hundreds of applicants. He said:
I am confident that, with her profound knowledge of issues affecting young people, and working in close collaboration with the relevant Departments of the Commission, she will contribute to the effective implementation of African Union youth policies and programs.As we look ahead to the future of the continent, we must pause and look back at the past year to appreciate the unyielding resilience of Africa’s youth. This is why this year’s theme “Defining The Future Today: Youth-Led Solutions For Building The Africa We Want” is of great significance.
He paid tribute to the outgoing Envoy, Aya Chebbi and all members of the Youth Advisory Council.
I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Commission, to express my gratitude and appreciation to the outgoing Envoy, Ms Aya Chebbi along with Ms Petrider Paul; Ms Monbolade Urhele Pamela; Ms Metour Mouini Vanessa; Dr Shakira Choonara; Ms Aminetou Bilal; Mr Simon Marot Toulong; Mr Serigne Ndiaye; Mr Nair Abakar and Mr Dario Abdula Camal – all members of the Youth Advisory Council, for fulfilling their mandate with diligence and passion.