By Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Chairman of the Governing Council, African Union Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, Professor Tunji Asaolu, has underscored the critical role of youth and women in achieving Africa’s ambitious development objectives under Agenda 2063. Asaolu made this assertion during the Annual Public Lecture and Gala Night held in Abuja over the weekend.
Themed “Appraising the 11-Year Journey of AU Agenda 2063 and the Way Forward,” the event convened stakeholders from across the continent to reflect on the progress and challenges in implementing the Agenda, which was launched in 2013 as a transformative blueprint for Africa’s sustainable development by 2063.
In his keynote presentation, Asaolu emphasized the importance of youth inclusion and gender equity as pillars of sustainable development. He noted that young people form a significant portion of Africa's population and are central to driving innovation and economic growth.
“Youth inclusion is crucial for the successful implementation of Agenda 2063,” Asaolu stated. “Empowering the youth through education, skills development, entrepreneurship, and meaningful participation in decision-making processes can accelerate innovation and sustainable development across the continent.”
Asaolu also highlighted the importance of gender equality, arguing that women’s empowerment is fundamental to achieving Agenda 2063's goals. “By promoting gender-inclusive policies and programs that address barriers to women's participation in the economy, politics, and society, African countries can harness the full potential of women as agents of change. This leads to more inclusive and equitable development outcomes for all,” he explained.
While reflecting on the achievements of Agenda 2063 over the past decade, Asaolu commended milestones such as the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which he described as a major catalyst for economic integration and growth. However, he acknowledged persistent challenges, including funding constraints, limited political will, and capacity deficits at national and regional levels.
“The success of Agenda 2063 hinges on effective coordination and collaboration among member states,” he noted. “But differing priorities, bureaucratic hurdles, and lack of harmonized policies remain significant obstacles to seamless cooperation.”
Asaolu urged African leaders to prioritize Agenda 2063 amidst shifting political climates, stressing the need to build institutional and human capacity to drive its implementation effectively.
Speaking with journalists at the event, the Head of Mission for the AU Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, Ambassador Dr. Stephen Joel, reiterated the importance of unity among African nations in achieving the Agenda’s aspirations.
“This diplomatic organization is dedicated to realizing Agenda 2063, a transformative vision for Africa's future,” Joel declared. He called for a shift from a blame-oriented mindset to a focus on collective ownership of Africa’s destiny. “We have moved beyond the blame game. Now, we must own our future and strive to stand strong alongside other continents,” he added.
Joel urged member states to embrace the seven aspirations outlined in Agenda 2063, stating that their faithful implementation would position Africa as a global superpower. “Together, we are better. We must seek common ground, appreciate our diversity, and work collectively for the continent’s progress,” he said.
The Chairman of the Health and Social Affairs Committee of the AU Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, Ambassador Dr. Saadatu Adamu, echoed the sentiment of collective responsibility. “The Africa we desire is not the responsibility of one person alone; it involves each and every one of us,” Adamu stated.
Adamu further emphasized the need to promote Africa’s rich narratives and create awareness for a shared vision. She identified leadership as a significant barrier to achieving Agenda 2063’s goals, stressing the importance of unity across sectors to unlock the continent’s potential.
“If we can address our leadership issues and recognize the importance of unity, we will unlock untold potential within the continent,” she concluded.
As Africa marks 11 years of its Agenda 2063 journey, the call for youth and women’s inclusion, unity, and shared responsibility resonates as a guiding principle for the continent’s transformation. Stakeholders at the Abuja event reiterated their commitment to ensuring that Africa’s aspirations for peace, prosperity, and global relevance are realized by 2063.
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