Afro-Arab Youth Congress 2025: Uganda Sets Stage for Unity, Peace and Prosperity

Uganda is set to host the Afro-Arab Youth Congress (AAYC) 2025, a landmark event that will bring together over 1,000 young leaders, policymakers, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and development partners from across Africa and the Arab world. The congress, scheduled for 7th–10th October 2025 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, will run under the theme: “Amplifying Youth Voices for Peace, Unity and Prosperity.”

The announcement was made at the Uganda Media Centre through a press statement by the Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, which was read by the AAYC Secretary-General, Hon. Dr. Abbas Agaba.

A Platform for Unity and Shared Vision

According to Hon. Babalanda, the Congress marks a historic milestone in strengthening ties between Africa and the Arab world, providing a unique platform for young people to share ideas, celebrate cultural diversity, and chart a collective vision for peace and development.

“Today’s youth are the cornerstone of our shared future. Their creativity, energy, and vision are essential for building resilient societies and fostering prosperity across nations,” Hon. Babalanda said, adding that Uganda is honored to host such a transformative gathering.

She urged participants to engage actively in the discussions, build strong collaborations, and return to their communities as ambassadors of unity and change.

Major Highlights of AAYC 2025

The four-day congress will feature a diverse program aimed at inspiring innovation, leadership, and solidarity among youth. Key highlights include:

High-level keynote sessions with African and Arab youth ministers, policymakers, and development partners.

A non-elective General Assembly adopting the Kampala Declaration on Afro-Arab Youth Cooperation with concrete recommendations for governments and international bodies.

Interactive youth-led panels and workshops on leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Youth innovation exhibitions, cultural nights, and business networking forums.

Fundraising Drive for AAYC International Headquarters

One of the central features of this year’s congress will be the launch of a fundraising drive for the construction of the AAYC International Headquarters in Nakawuka, Uganda. The initiative will be coordinated by Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, AAYC Special Envoy, with the involvement of five visiting Heads of State and Uganda’s President, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who also serves as patron of the AAYC.

A Dream City for Youth Empowerment

Unveiling the long-term vision, Dr. Abbas Agaba announced plans for an ambitious Afro-Arab Youth City project, to be built on 50 acres of land donated by President Museveni. The futuristic complex will include:

An office block

An international-standard hotel

A sports stadium

A cultural heritage center 

A University of Science and Technology

“This is more than a building; it’s a dream city that will promote unity, cultural exchange, and youth empowerment,” Dr. Agaba noted, praising the President for fulfilling his land pledge and initiating the fundraising alongside fellow Heads of State.

A Global Gathering of Change-Makers 

The Afro-Arab Youth Congress is expected to draw a diverse pool of participants including youth leaders, entrepreneurs, students, government ministers, diplomats, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and the media.

Uganda, renowned for its hospitality, cultural diversity, and youthful population, is positioning itself as a hub for youth leadership and innovation on the continent. The Congress promises not only to strengthen Afro-Arab cooperation but also to ignite bold action, meaningful partnerships, and a renewed spirit of solidarity for a peaceful and prosperous future.

On behalf of the Government of Uganda and President Museveni, Hon. Babalanda extended warm wishes for fruitful deliberations and a memorable stay to all delegates visiting the country for this historic event.