KAMPALA, UGANDA – Over 10,000 young leaders from across Africa gathered in Kampala and Jinja for the International Youth Festival 2024, a two-day event focused on addressing some of the continent’s most pressing challenges, including the exploration of Africa’s nuclear energy potential. The festival, themed “Empowering Global Youth,” brought together participants from diverse fields such as business, science, education, healthcare, and international cooperation, underscoring the role of youth in driving innovation and positive change across Africa.
The festival highlighted critical global issues with a particular emphasis on topics relevant to Africa, such as nuclear energy, ecology, healthcare, education, and culture. Young people from all walks of life engaged in dynamic discussions and collaborative activities, showcasing the potential of African youth to lead the continent toward a sustainable future.
The first day of the event, held in Kampala, opened with a special session titled “Nuclear Energy for Africa and Opportunities for Employment.” Experts and young leaders explored how nuclear technology could be a game-changer for Africa’s sustainable development, with discussions on energy security, job creation, and environmental sustainability. One of the festival’s highlights was a “science stand-up” session, where young African scientists presented innovative solutions and inventions aimed at addressing the continent’s unique challenges.
On the second day, held in Jinja, the focus shifted to broader themes of healthcare, ecology, and the future of education and culture in Africa. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on how these sectors can be reimagined to ensure long-term progress and prosperity. The event concluded with a grand musical concert featuring popular African and Russian performers, drawing more than 25,000 spectators from across the continent.
The International Youth Festival 2024 brought together representatives from some of Africa’s largest companies, young entrepreneurs, government officials, and influencers, creating an intergenerational platform for collaboration. This year’s edition reinforced the importance of youth leadership in addressing global challenges and reaffirmed the potential for Africa’s youth to shape the continent’s future, especially in the realm of nuclear energy and sustainable development.