Nine young South Sudanese leaders have joined hundreds of peers from across Africa at the 2nd All Africa Youth Congress (AAYC 2025) in Nairobi, Kenya a dynamic continental gathering held under the theme “Africa: My Home. My Future.”
Organized by the All-Africa Conference of Churches (AACC), the Congress ran from October 31 to November 5, bringing together youth leaders, innovators, and faith-based actors to exchange ideas on the continent’s future, leadership, and sustainable development.
The South Sudanese delegation, aged between 18 and 35, was led by Mboriini Ceasar Eliaba from the Episcopal Church of South Sudan.
Determined to represent their country with pride, the young leaders self-funded much of their journey each contributing a $100 registration fee alongside AACC’s logistical support.
“It was not easy, but we made a commitment to show that South Sudanese youth can be part of shaping Africa’s destiny,” one delegate said.
The Congress theme, “Africa: My Home. My Future,” resonated deeply with participants, stirring reflections on self-reliance and continental pride.
“The Africa I and other youth want to live in is not the Africa we have now,” one youth remarked. “We are the greatest asset and the catalyst for the change we want to see.”
“It reminds me to love my country despite its challenges. There is a future in Africa, not only abroad,” another delegate added:
Discussions on migration, human trafficking, and modern slavery struck a chord with the South Sudanese delegation, many of whom recognized parallels back home.
“I learned that human trafficking is already happening in South Sudan,” one participant said. “It motivated me to raise awareness when I return.”
The group also cited education gaps, unemployment, and insecurity as critical challenges facing young people in South Sudan issues they believe can be addressed through cooperation, innovation, and peacebuilding.
“Youth must use their energy for constructive change, not destruction,” another emphasized.
As the Congress closed, the South Sudanese youth committed to turn their insights into action.
They plan to launch awareness campaigns on human trafficking, host youth dialogues through churches and social media, and mobilize more participation in future continental forums.
“The Congress happens every two years,” one delegate said. “Let’s attend to share our ideas, not for allowances. Our voices matter in shaping Africa’s tomorrow.”
