Speaking during the technology and innovation session, Harriet Richman an expert from the Centre for Women Empowerment in Technology – CWE Tech said, “The future of young people is in the hands of young people.” Harriet affirmed that the youth possess the potential to drive economic growth and innovation.

She also stated that Africa’s demographic trends should be understood in a clear-eyed manner to assess accurately whether it will be an asset or a liability. She thereafter reiterated that the time for African youth to shine has come and no one can deny it.

Accordingly the  President of Jadara, Mr. Hamid Ben Elafdil, echoed similar sentiments. He emphasized that, “Africa is not on hold waiting for a solution, Africa is the solution.” This powerful sentiment was the heart of the entire summit making a genesis of an informed Africa by Africa for Africa.

Notably, the summit also addressed the current unemployment situation in sub-Saharan Africa. It was observed that the unemployment rate is deteriorating and this was exacerbated by various developments, such as the climate crisis.

A 2024 report by the International Labour Organization underscored that the lack of productive and decent jobs remains the largest labour market challenge for young people in Sub-Saharan Africa. At 21.9 per cent in 2023, the youth NEET (not in employment, education, or training) rate in sub-Saharan Africa exceeded the global rate (at 20.4 per cent).

Markedly more than one in four young people in Africa around 72 million are not in employment, education or training (NEET). In fact, two-thirds of unemployed persons in Africa are young women.

The need for policy interventions to support young women in finding stable and satisfactory employment remains a major concern that warrants attention. While there are numerous strategies and interventions to promote youth employment, the journey for addressing the structural challenges that impede change is still on.

While the YES Africa summit was a catalytic moment for Africa, only time will tell if visible fruits will be seen.

]]> https://liberalnewsnetwork.com/2025/04/08/enough-is-enough-african-leaders-say-its-time-to-take-charge-of-our-own-development/ Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:33:35 +0000 https://liberalnewsnetwork.com/?p=4526 Nairobi,  Kenya- A critical dialogue exploded today, revealing the stark reality of dwindling foreign aid and igniting a movement. In a powerful,  unfiltered yet timely dialogue held in Nairobi, top African development experts declared an inevitable end of dependency on shrinking foreign aid. With USAID pulling back and billions in donor funds disappearing, leaders are sounding the alarm and taking action to drive the course of development.

“Africa’s development journey is our collective responsibility,” said William Asiko, the Vice President of the Rockefeller Foundation Africa, during the opening session.

Asiko insisted that “Africa is home,” and “Africans have the responsibility of steering the change beyond the systemic challenges.”He also  stated that the Africa X Change 2025 event must be the spark that builds a movement for change by Africans, for Africa.”

Speaking with the same tone, Musalia Mudavadi, incumbent  Prime Cabinet Secretary of the government of Kenya, said, “We must review what’s not working and make amendments.” Musalia insisted that  “It’s time to create new homegrown solutions.” He challenged African nations to shake off old systems, citing that aid from the West may take a complete rest.

If the West cuts off aid entirely, African philanthropists will need to come together and fund the initiatives of non-profits to sustain the change Africa needs.

Faustina Fynn Nyame, Executive Director of the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation Africa, said,  “It’s time Africa reimagines her development agenda on different terms.” Nyame underscored that former foreign funders were not meant to partner with the continent’s priorities for long. She insisted that Africa needed to develop an African strategy, own it, and fund it.

Accordingly, Ndidi Nwuneli, the Chief Executive Officer of the ONE Campaign, also dropped new bombshells to the development space. She said,  “Private sectors stepped up during COVID-19 and can also step up now.” Nwuneli stated that Africans need to wake up because no one is coming to save us!”

She added, “We need African data for African problems, and we must be smarter with every coin we spend. $100 billion went into health and education, yet our debt remains a crisis.”

Additionally, Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Chief Executive Officer of African Medical and Research Foundation Health Africa, said, “Sub-Saharan Africa is spending just $96 per person on health. ” He underscored the shocking reality, ” Poverty in Africa starts with fertility.”  He boldly stated, “Even with USAID cuts, we’ve survived. We can thrive!”

Seemingly, African development partners are no longer waiting in the shadows of dwindling foreign aid. There is an awakening that is unapologetic towards self-reliance.  Perhaps self-determination, sustainable financing, and homegrown solutions have finally caught the attention of developing partners.  Ultimately, Africa’s future development hinges not on what is lost but on what can be built through unity, innovation, and purpose-driven collaboration. The time has come to sustain the change we seek, not through borrowed promises but through collective purpose, vision, and courage born of this continent.

“It’s easy to think something is impossible just because it hasn’t been done before,” Harris said, echoing her rallying cry to women and girls who dream of leadership. “But for everyone watching, do not despair. This is just the beginning.”

“We have been intentional about building community and building coalitions, building people together from every walk of backgrounds.” Harris’s words were both humbling and powerful.

“We have so much in common than what separates us.” said Harris,” We must accept the results of this election.”

Kamala also committed to a peaceful transfer of power.  She also said, ” The fundamental principle of American democracy is that when we loose an election, we accept results.”

She also reminded Americans that hope and progress are paths with many setbacks. After an uphill campaign and relentless dedication, she held her head high, urging supporters to believe in what’s possible despite her loss.

Though the odds were against her as the election approached, polls showing slim chances at less than 5%, Harris remained unshaken, becoming a symbol for millions of women and minorities who saw themselves in her journey. The results, though heartbreaking for Democrats, were also undeniable, marking a moment for reflection but not defeat.

She vowed to continue the fight for democracy, rule of law, and equal justice.”Every one of us no matter who we are or where we stand out has fundamental freedoms that must be upheld.”

“The fight for our country is always worth it!”  lauded Harris.” Sometimes the fight may take a while but that does not mean that we won’t win.”

“This is not a time to despair, it’s a time to roll up our sleeves and organize, mobilize, and stay engaged for the sake of freedom and justice,” said  Harris.

Kamala Harris’ Presidential campaign may have fallen short, but the waves it created will ripple for generations. For her supporters, the message was clear: the dream is alive, even if it remains, for now, just out of reach. And as her words this morning reminded us, giving up isn’t an option, not now, and not ever. The road to shattering the glass ceiling remains, perhaps a bit longer, yet, Harris has shown us that it’s a road worth taking, again and again.

But this comes as no surprise because long before Rigathi, Kindiki existed. Kindiki Kithure was William Ruto’s lawyer when he faced troubling times in the Hague because if the Post-Election Violence. Back then, Kindiki was the legal shoulder that Ruto could rely on. Furthermore, Ruto entrusted him with the critical role of chief agent in the 2022 presidential election, where Kindiki remained stationed at Bomas of Kenya until the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) announced the final results.

Perhaps Ruto found the time was right to reward his most reliable lawyer as the desired deputy president in Kenya. It is also worth noting that Professor Kindiki was the interior Cabinet Secretary and hence his excellent role and diligence in serving the President Ruto’s  priorities made him the most preferred option.

However, President Ruto’s recent move has sparked controversy, with some critics accusing him of underhanded tactics while others praising his unexpected strategy.

In his defense,  President Ruto said, “I was a lonely voice in the presidency, especially in the executive,” while addressing dignitaries during Professor Kindiki’s swearing in ceremony.

The President also confessed that he was confident in Kindiki Kithure’s capability and now seems certain that the Professor will do “What he cannot do.”

This move, stunning in its suddenness, highlights the fluidity of political allegiances that once rocked political parties in Kenya. Its repetition in President Ruto’s government appointments is a stark reflection of the unpredictable nature of Kenyan politics.

Kenyan netizens did not shy away from expressing their views. One, David Anamani said, “Accept the fact that everyone will leave you, even the people who promised to stay.”

Another called Mzalendo said, “Kindiki is evil but his latter,  Rigathe Gachagua is the devil, ” while another said that Rigathe Gachagua fell from grace to grass.”

A catalogue of congratulatory messages poured in from governmental parastatals and agencies, honoring Professor Kithure Kindiki’s recent appointment.

Whether this latest appointment signals a deeper shift in political alignments or is simply another chapter in Kenya’s intricate political saga is yet to be seen. For now, the future of political relationships remains in the hands of time.

Speaking on Monday the 21st of October, 2024, Mutorwa said, “Africa needs plans and mechanisms that are fit for purpose and can be understood by early warning system users.”

Mutorwa urged African leaders to advance the swift implementation of the 2023–2027 Action Plan to ensure its success. He also said that the continent is interconnected and urged decision-makers to explore ways that can accelerate the adoption of early warning systems across the continent.

Accordingly, Agnes Lawrence Kijazi, Director of the Regional Office for Africa, World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said that the continent needs to enhance information sharing to effectively ascertain risk management.

Kijazi asserted the imperative need to enhance early warning systems in Africa. She also stated that the need for continuous stakeholder involvement.

The forum also underscored the critical role of early warning systems in reducing the impact of disasters such as floods, droughts, and wildfires.

While some progress has been made in establishing early warning systems across the continent, a 2023 report noted that 40% of the population has access to early warning systems.

Kamal Kishore, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for DRR, and Head, of the UN Office for DRR (UNDRR) urged Africa to cooperate and collaborate to prevent risks from becoming disasters.

Early this year there was unprecedented rainfall in large parts of the Sahel and East Africa regions which resulted in flooding in Nigeria, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, some parts of  Tanzania, Uganda, and largely in Kenya. However, the collective effort was not necessarily put in place as each state was left to fend on its own.

There are bouts of renewed optimism for collaborative efforts among African nations to protect their citizens from the escalating threats of natural disasters as the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) champions initiatives like the AfRP-9 forum.

Speaking during an interview with Liberal News Network in Nairobi, Laurin Mungai, a 26-year-old graduate from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)  narrated how she found out about the digital skill program and the impact it has brought on her career and business.

“In business, data is everything. I was relying on word-of-mouth feedback for my chili products, which wasn’t sustainable. But, now, thanks to the training, I can clean, analyze, and visualize data, allowing me to build meaningful narratives and track progress. It has completely changed the way I operate my business,”

Laurin who pursued mechatronic engineering said the program provided more than just technical know-how because it empowered her to bolster her entrepreneurial venture.

“I encourage other young people to seek out similar opportunities,” said Lauren while noting that programs digital programs are often more accessible and impactful than traditional routes.

Accordingly, Brian Monene, a fourth-year software engineering student from Murang’a University of Technology, encountered a similar experience. Initially doubtful about the success of his application, Brian viewed the program as an opportunity to refine his technical expertise and acquire practical experience.

“I applied merely to advance my technical abilities,” Brian explained. “What I didn’t anticipate was how profoundly this program would broaden my horizons—not just in programming, but also in networking and practical industry engagement.”

The 10-day intensive training introduced Brian to new programming tools and practices while fostering a collaborative network among the participants. He has already begun applying his newfound knowledge to an ongoing business project and is excited about the potential it holds for his future.

“It felt like the missing piece of the puzzle for my project. This course has given me the confidence to implement what I’ve learned in data science,” he said.

The program was organized by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the Inter-University Council of East Africa (IUCEA), and WINS Global Consult, with support from Strathmore University. It was designed to help young people from Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to develop skills for the African market.

Emmanuel Kuyu, the Deputy Director of Strathmore University’s iLab Africa, said the program is a vital step in preparing young people for the digital economy. In his view, more youths need to be engaged in this program.

He also said, “The initiative is essential for preparing young people to thrive in the digital age.”

The influence of the program reaches far beyond the confines of the classroom. Currently, iLab Africa is renowned for its dedication to harnessing technology for developmental progress across East Africa, and sees this latest batch of graduates as a testament to their mission of building digital prowess in crucial sectors.

“At iLab Africa, we aim to leverage technology to address real-world issues. This program embodies that mission—arming young minds with the tools needed to confront the challenges of the future,” Kuyu added.

As East Africa’s digital revolution gains unprecedented momentum, Kenya stands as a beacon of this transformation, galvanizing its youth to spearhead the change. Initiatives like the digital skills program herald the rise of a new generation of innovators, poised to reshape not just their local economies, but the future of the entire region.

His raw and unfiltered accusations against President Ruto, the IMF’s austerity measures, and the explosive Gen Z-led resistance against Kenya’s government have stirred the political waters in a country already on edge. But it’s not just his words that have captivated the nation—it’s the high-stakes drama surrounding him. The recent, almost cinematic, raid on his home by heavily armed military forces has catapulted him into the national spotlight. Reports of brutality, not only towards Wanjigi but also towards his family—his elderly mother and young children—have triggered an eruption of public fury. Now, Wanjigi is casting himself as the latest victim of state repression, a narrative that is striking a deep chord with a nation that’s growing increasingly distrustful of unchecked government power.

Yet, beneath the veneer of a beleaguered businessman lies a complex character whose influence extends far beyond his corporate empire. Critics suggest that Wanjigi’s political ambitions are thinly veiled, with his business ventures serving as a smokescreen for his true agenda. His alleged role in fueling youth unrest has further cemented this perception, painting him as a shadowy figure manipulating societal tensions for personal gain.

Kenyans are left to speculate, wondering whether this is the moment the country’s political tides shift or merely another chapter in Wanjigi’s ongoing saga of influence and power. One thing is certain—whatever comes next, Jimmy Wanjigi remains a pivotal player in the unfolding story of Kenya’s future. As Kenyans wait with bated breath, many unanswered questions swirl around Wanjigi: Is he a victim of a political witch-hunt, or is the state finally closing in on a man who has overstepped the boundaries of “legitimate”  political engagements?  Only time will tell.

Kalonzo Musyoka, former Vice President and current leader of the Wiper political party voiced strong objections, claiming that 1 trillion Kenyan Shillings (USD 7.7 billion) of the proposed financial budget would “finance corruption.”

“As concerned citizens, we want a blatant disregard of the 2024 Financial Bill,” said Musyoka while speaking at a press conference. “The rising digital activism among Kenyans as a clear indication of widespread discontent with the bill.”

Martha Karua, leader of the Narc Kenya party and a prominent figure in the Azimio la Umoja coalition, also echoed Musyoka’s sentiments.

“The Finance Bill 2024 will bring more pain to Kenyans if it sails through the National Assembly without amendments,” warned Karua.

She also emphasized that budgeting is about making the right choices that prioritize the welfare and safety of the people, not about funding the Executive.

Karua also said,  ” Leaders must make choices that can lead to a much safer Kenya must be based on true reference and respect for the people,” she added.

Adding to the opposition’s proposals, Edwin Sifuna from the Orange Democratic Movement announced a ban on travel for their Members of Parliament during the debate on the 2024 Financial Bill. This move represents the coalition’s commitment to actively opposing the bill within parliamentary proceedings.

Accordingly, Jeremiah Kioni of the Jubilee Party also expressed his disdain, stating, “The budget seems to have been made by crooks.” His statement reflects the deep mistrust and frustration among opposition leaders regarding the integrity of the budgetary process and the Executive.

Whether the views of the Azimio la Umoja coalition will be used to debate the Financial Bill by Members of Parliament will only be told with time. Meanwhile, many Kenyans, continue to express concern among many Kenyans who fear the economic and social repercussions of the proposed budget.

The meeting emphasized the significance of women’s active participation in politics, not just as tokens, but as architects of policy and decision-makers. True impact, resonated the call, comes from being present where it matters most. The discourse urged a reimagining of women’s leadership in both public and private sectors, acknowledging it as the key to substantial progress.

The session served as a powerful reflection, delving into the past, present, and future of women’s leadership on the continent. A stark reality emerged: African women, brimming with potential, were systematically denied meaningful platforms in political discourse and decision-making.

“We need to push back against these oppressive structures, and in the spirit of Sawubona, lift each other up!” thundered Hon. Millie Odhiambo, Suba North Member of Parliament of Kenya. Her words dispelled the myth of politics being a moral challenge for women, declaring, “Women leaders are capable. Women must be bold to take their rightful pace in the political space.”

Echoing this sentiment, Hon. Fatuma Ndangiza, Secretary General of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Women’s Caucus, highlighted the grassroots struggle of women in politics. “African women are capable of leading, but they are overburdened by the triple role – family, equality, and change,” she stated, her voice resonating with the struggles of countless women juggling responsibilities while fighting for their rightful place.

“Women must find their way into the rooms where decisions are made,” asserted Winnie Kiiza, a former Leader of Opposition in Uganda. Her words painted a stark picture of millions of women silenced by poverty and oppression, their voices yearning to be heard.

The pre-Sawubona meeting was not just a discussion; it was an ignition. It ignited a renewed passion, a burning desire to rewrite the narrative of women’s political participation in Africa. The message was clear: women must lead and femntorship (as opposed to the proverbial mentoring) the next generation to accelerate the momentum of inclusive governance and gender equality.

Born and raised in Kenya, Lidigu sees journalism as more than just reporting; it’s a calling to investigate, to unearth uncomfortable truths, and to think outside the box. His headlines are testaments to this: “Africa may leave climate meet empty handed amid stalemate” and “COP28 president: Why I’m (Dr. Sultan Al-Jaber) pushing for less emissions” – each a challenge, a catalyst for dialogue.

Lidigu’s reach extends far and wide. He secured an exclusive interview with Dr. Sultan Al-Jaber, the President of COP28, a feat in itself. He captivated listeners at the Dubai media booth, leaving them grappling with the bold narratives he weaves around climate justice.

But his bold approach doesn’t sit well with everyone. Inn fact , his unfiltered truth-seeking makes some decision-makers squirm, their comfort zones rattled by the questions he asks and the answers he reveals.

Yet, Lidigu persists. He knows the power of a well-told story, its ability to inform, ignite, and ultimately, drive change. He is a voice that resonates, a storyteller who compels action, and a force to be reckoned with in the fight for a healthier planet.

What’s next for Leon Lidigu? Will he continue to expose uncomfortable truths? Will he spark more international conversations? This captivating journalist’s journey is far from over, and one thing is certain: he will continue to leave his mark, one well-crafted story at a time, but the big question is, is he a dedicated climate crusader or a sincere troublemaker?