Youth for Peace thrills in Addis Ababa

A group of over 100 youth people gathered in the capital of Ethiopia, Addis Abba to discuss on the AU continental framework on youth, peace and security. The main objective of the program is to dissuade youth from violent actions and facilitate their meaningful participation in all spectrums of peace and security in Africa. In this regard, the program finalized the Continental Framework on Youth Peace and Security and its ten Year implementation plan which were adopted by the AU PSC in 2020.

The Youth for Peace seminar in organized in partnership with the Host Nation Ethiopia and the European Union through the African Peace and Architecture programme. In her welcoming remarks, the Ethiopian State Minister of Defense, Mrs. Martha pointed out the importance of engaging the young people at decision making levels and called on youth to take their rightful seats in all spheres.

In his opening remarks, the Head of the Peace Operations Department at EASF, Brig. GeneralKabissa Domitien representing the Director of EASF, welcomed the youth leaders from the EASF Member States and highlighted their pivotal roles in promoting peace and in advocating for the effective implementation of the continental framework on youth peace and security in their respective countries.On her part, the Youth Leader from Burundi, Miss Blandine Niyongere called on her fellow youths to be the torch bearers of the peace message and peace promoters. She emphasized that by the end of the seminar, youth leaders from EASF Member States should take home what they have acquired during the seminar and apply in their respective countries.

The event is part of EASF’s continued effort in engaging young people in matters of peace and security. ‘’Let us work together for the betterment of communities, our countries and our region’’ Concluded H. E Dr. Ergoge Tesfaye, the Minster of Women and Social Affairs. Minster Ergoge, also accentuated the on the fact that policy makers should be held accountable for their actions and that youths should be involved in decision making process.

Various topics such as continental framework on youth, peace and security, gender, role of civil society in peace building will be discussed during the seminar. The event will be culminated with a city tour and tree planting event on the following day.

Photo galery:Youth for Peace Ethiopia