To commemorate the 10th anniversary, the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN) is set to hold a one-day conference to discuss the crucial role of youth leadership in driving economic growth and sustainability in Africa.

The event, scheduled for October 25, 2024, in Abuja, will serve as a platform for young African leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Agenda 2063, and the future of youth leadership in Africa.

In a statement, MWFAAN President, Farida Yahya, said the conference theme, “10 Years of Cultivating Young African Leaders: Shaping Africa’s Future with AfCFTA & Agenda 2063,” aims to empower young African leaders to drive sustainable development and economic growth across the continent.

“By fostering leadership skills and promoting collaborative opportunities, we aim to create a brighter future for Africa,” she added.

The event will feature a keynote address by distinguished African leaders, engaging discussions on AfCFTA, Agenda 2063, and youth leadership development, networking opportunities for young African leaders from across the continent, recognition of outstanding Mandela Washington Fellowship alumni, and a showcase of the MWF at 10 Documentary.

According to MWFAAN Vice President and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Bidemi Ojo, the event is a celebration of the remarkable achievements of the Mandela Washington Fellowship alumni over the past decade.

The event will also feature the launch of the Mandela Washington Fellowship (MWF) at 10 Free Trade Zone Web App.

This innovative platform is designed to support Mandela Washington Fellows across Africa in exploring trade opportunities within the AfCFTA.

MWFAAN said the app is curated to provide young leaders with the necessary tools to bridge the gap between leadership, economic growth, and sustainable development.