NAIROBI, Kenya – Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has challenged young Africans to step into leadership roles immediately, cautioning that waiting for the future to hand them power could mean missing their moment.
Speaking at the IGAD Leadership Academy (ILA) Annual Alumni Conference held at Windsor Hotel, Nairobi, Uhuru described the popular notion of “leaders of tomorrow” as misleading.
“If you continue believing you are the leaders of tomorrow, that tomorrow will never come,” he said. “You are the leaders of today. Your ideas, your courage, your personal commitment will shape the future of Africa.”
Uhuru drew inspiration from Kenya’s early leaders, including Tom Mboya and Kenneth Matiba, who began shaping the nation in their twenties.
Seize the Moment, Kenyatta Urges Young Africans at IGAD ConferenceNAIROBI: 17th December, 2025: Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has called on young Africans to seize leadership opportunities now, warning that those who wait for the future to hand them power risk missing their
He lauded young Africans taking initiative on social and humanitarian issues, describing their unity as proof that the continent’s renewal has already begun.
The conference, themed “Harnessing Youth Leadership to Drive Africa’s Growth,” brought together ILA alumni, diplomats, and regional leaders. Speakers highlighted the importance of empowering youth to tackle Africa’s pressing challenges.
IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu stressed that the Horn of Africa’s challenges are human-made and that the next generation must be prepared to make better choices.
“If we are to achieve real regional cooperation, we must first cultivate the minds of the youth,” he said.
Senator Crystal Asige urged young leaders to approach leadership with purpose, humility, and a strong ethical grounding. She emphasized that true success comes from excellence that cannot be ignored.
The conference also featured remarks from Riina-Riikka Heikka, Finland’s Ambassador to Kenya, and Tomonobu Hori, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Japan-Kenya, underscoring the regional and international support for Africa’s emerging leaders.
