By Spy Uganda
In a powerful speech at the Africa Youth Congress 2025, Andrew Irumba Katusabe, the Founding Speaker and Chairman of Pan African Pyramid, emphasized the vital role of African youth in shaping the future of the continent. Addressing an enthusiastic crowd at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala, Katusabe’s speech resonated with the central theme of the Congress: “Africanism: Modernizing Along Culture.”
Irumba began by reflecting on the legacy of Africa’s revolutionary leaders, particularly the youth-driven independence movements of the 20th century. He paid tribute to figures such as Kwame Nkrumah, Patrice Lumumba, Julius Nyerere, and Robert Mugabe, whose revolutionary visions laid the foundation for Pan-Africanism. He also honored figures from across the Atlantic, including W.E.B. Du Bois, Marcus Garvey, and Martin Luther King Jr., whose efforts for African unity and justice resonated globally.
Irumba also highlighted the significant contributions of women leaders such as Winnie Mandela, Queen Mother Moore, and the transformative efforts of leaders like Nelson Mandela, Thomas Sankara, and Muammar Gaddafi, who all carried the torch of Pan-African ideals. These leaders, he said, demonstrated that the future of Africa lies in the active participation of its youth.
“Today, Africa is the youngest continent in the world, with over 60% of its population under the age of 25,” Irumba noted. “This demographic reality presents both a unique opportunity and a profound responsibility. The energy and creativity of African youth are poised to drive social, economic, and cultural transformation across the continent.”
Further, in his speech, Irumba outlined four key areas where the youth must lead Africa’s transformation:
- Advancing Economic Growth
Katusabe recognized the growing wave of entrepreneurship and innovation among young Africans. “Young people are creating businesses, developing technology, and creating jobs across various sectors,” he said. He emphasized the importance of investing in education, skills development, and providing access to capital to enable young entrepreneurs to flourish. “The future of Africa’s economic prosperity is tied to the success of its youth.” - Championing Cultural Renaissance
Africa’s rich cultural heritage, Katusabe argued, is a powerful tool for unity and pride. “The youth have a critical role in preserving this heritage while adapting it to modern times,” he said. He praised young Africans who are redefining African identity through music, art, literature, and digital platforms, uniting the continent in shared cultural pride. - Driving Political Transformation
Katusabe stressed that the youth must become more involved in governance and policymaking. “Across Africa, young people are demanding accountability, transparency, and inclusive leadership,” he stated. He applauded the efforts of young Africans organizing grassroots movements, participating in elections, and using social media to advocate for change. He stressed that this level of engagement is vital for building strong democratic institutions. - Advocating for Sustainability and Innovation
One of the greatest challenges facing Africa today is climate change, Irumba said. He commended young Africans for their leadership in advocating for environmental sustainability. He urged the youth to embrace green technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable agricultural practices to build a more resilient and sustainable future for the continent.
Pan-Africanism: A Path Forward
Irumba reinforced the relevance of Pan-Africanism in modern times, urging African youth to transcend borders, embrace diversity, and work together toward economic and political unity. He pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a significant opportunity for youth to foster innovation, trade, and shared prosperity.
In his closing remarks, Irumba issued a rallying call to the youth of Africa: “Dream boldly, act courageously. The future of Africa rests in your hands.” He encouraged delegates to take inspiration from Africa’s revolutionary past and work together to create a brighter, united future.
Drawing from the words of Kwame Nkrumah, Katusabe reminded the audience, “The independence of Sahraoui Republic, is meaningless unless it is linked up with the total liberation of the African continent.”
He also invoked the African proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” He urged the youth to unite and collaborate in order to transform Africa into a beacon of hope, opportunity, and progress for future generations.
The Africa Youth Congress 2025 served as a powerful platform for young leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists to come together and renew their commitment to Pan-African ideals, guided by the vision of unity, self-reliance, and solidarity.
