Expectations from Ghana

We are passing through an important and exciting phase not only
in the reconstruction and development of our continent, but also
in the struggle for the freedom and unity of young people on the
continent.

In this great task of getting ourselves accomplished for this struggle,
the importance of such periodic meetings like Umoja, the Africa YMCA
Youth Summit cannot be over emphasized.

Our greatest challenge is our status as youth "more of SUBJECTS"
Our accomplishment is to exist more as Citizen even as youth.
Where we able to identify and help solve the issues that underpins
our very existence. Where we are able to engage with duty bearers
on issues that pertains to our development. Where we are able to build a voice that would be listened to. Where our stake in the socio-economic
development of our countries and the continent is recognized by all.

I share our youthful feelings as we assemble from different parts of
the continent to celebrate our identity and the course ahead in Addis
Ababa, Ethiopia.

To us young people, this is an important occasion. Meeting at a time
Africa is celebrating the centenary of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah
coupled with the Africa Youth Charter entering into force, there is
every cause for us to say WE CAN MAKE IT given the lessons available.
We can affect a new generation of youth from our Ethiopia Assembly "Umoja II".

A time we will all reflect on our duty to mother Africa, on the cultivation of those virtues and skills which will promote the well being of us all, and our aspirations and hopes for the future.

It is therefore fitting that we should remind ourselves of the great
responsibilities we owe to our continent through our noble Association.

We are all involved. We have the energy, we have the passion, with
the finest intuition, our role as future leaders of the continent will be
promising.

Shalom!