The Top Diplomat: African Union Youth Envoy, Chido Mpemba
By Reginald Tapfumaneyi
Oran, Algeria – October 31, 2024
Chido Mpemba, the African Union Youth Envoy, was warmly welcomed by Algeria’s Governor of Oran and senior government officials ahead of her last Africa Youth Day on November 1.
This momentous visit marks the close of her three-year tenure, during which she spearheaded a range of youth-centered initiatives, culminating in Algeria’s hosting of the Pan African Youth Forum.
Reflecting on her achievements, Mpemba expressed gratitude for the welcome, noting, “I would like to express my gratitude for the warm welcome I have received from the government and the people of Algeria.”
As the AU Youth Envoy, Mpemba has transformed youth engagement within the African Union.
“We secured an AU Executive Council decision to make this office a sustainable platform, ensuring continuity for youth representation in the African Union,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of institutionalizing the Office of the Youth Envoy to provide a permanent voice for young people within the AU.
Another landmark achievement of Mpemba’s tenure was her work in revisiting the African Youth Charter.
“We achieved a decision to update the Youth Charter, aligning it with the evolving needs and realities of African youth since its inception in 2006,” she explained.
This move reflects her dedication to ensuring that policies keep pace with the changing landscape of youth concerns on the continent.
Mpemba’s commitment to broadening opportunities for young Africans has been evident through strategic partnerships.
“Through partnerships like the one between the African Union and the African Leadership Academy, we are creating opportunities for young Africans to gain experience in public policy, strengthening youth employment and leadership development,” she noted, underscoring her efforts to bolster youth employment.
Her advocacy has also included mental health, a traditionally under-addressed topic.
“With over 2,000 young participants, we have made strides in destigmatizing mental health challenges and promoting resilience,” Mpemba said, referring to her work with the #ICanSurvive Toolkit.
This initiative has provided essential mental health resources to young people across the continent.
In addition to social empowerment, Mpemba has been a vocal advocate for climate action, planting over 3,000 trees as part of her leadership in environmental sustainability.
“I aimed to lead by example in climate action and inspire responsibility towards our environment for future generations,” she stated, underscoring the importance of environmental stewardship.
With her legacy firmly established, Mpemba’s influence on the AU’s approach to youth engagement is expected to resonate well beyond her time as Youth Envoy.
