Adopted by participants in the Regional Forum of Youth Advisory Panels (YAPs), held in May 2025, the Conakry Declaration is a significant milestone in the structuring of youth civic and political participation in the development of Africa.
From 27 to 30 May 2025, Conakry, the capital of Guinea, hosted the Regional Forum of Youth Advisory Panels (YAPs). Organised by Plan International West and Central Africa Hub, the event was themed ‘The role of youth in the sustainable development process: participation, challenges and prospects’. Over 4 days, 200 young people from 15 West and Central African countries comprising members of youth advisory panels, youth networks, civil society organisations and partner institutions came together to share their experiences, develop their skills and explore prospects for a more inclusive future.
Central to the discussions were the roles of young people in governance, sustainable development, peace and social cohesion, and the promotion of gender equality. The forum featured interactive panels, training sessions, thematic workshops and direct dialogue between young people and public decision-makers.
“This forum is ours. Our voice is powerful. Let’s amplify it. Our voice is a driver of change. YES, our voice is powerful and our commitment can and will change things,” said Kadiata, Coordinator of the Regional YAP.
“This forum is ours. Our voice is powerful. Let’s amplify it. Our voice is a driver of change. YES, our voice is powerful and our commitment can and will change things.”
Kadiata, Coordinator of the Regional YAP
The Conakry Declaration: a collective commitment
As the apotheosis of the Regional Forum of YAPs, the Conakry Declaration is the result of consultation among the young people participating in the Forum. Based on discussions, lessons learned and recommendations and commitments made by young people, the Declaration provides a clear roadmap for youth action in West and Central Africa and beyond.
The 7 areas of focus of the Conakry Declaration
The Conakry Declaration is designed as a tool for mobilisation, monitoring and advocacy. Structured around 7 priority axes, it is addressed to states, regional institutions, development partners and civil society, and contains concrete, measurable and impactful recommendations.
- Axis 1: Security
- Axis 2: Governance
- Axis 3: Regional integration
- Axis 4: Education and Training
- Axis 5: Employment and entrepreneurship
- Axis 6: Health
- Axis 7: Environment and sustainable development
A declaration that reflects the commitment of young people
Beyond the recommendations, the Conakry Declaration is, above all, a reflection of the commitment of young people who wanted to create an advocacy tool that would serve as a roadmap for decision-makers and especially for young development actors. Just as it is true that change cannot happen without young people, it is also true that we are talking about strong and committed youth who are taking responsibility into their own hands and are working hard to make things happen.
“This declaration is the collective voice of young people. It expresses our aspirations and demands, but above all our commitment to contributing actively to the development of our societies,” said Mariam, a participant from Sierra Leone.
“This declaration is the collective voice of young people. It expresses our aspirations and demands, but above all our commitment to contributing actively to the development of our societies”
Mariam, a participant from Sierra Leone.
Bringing the Conakry Declaration to life
At the end of the YAP Regional Forum, young participants reaffirmed their determination to ensure that the Conakry Declaration does not remain just words on paper. They made a call for:
- Its wide dissemination in West and Central African countries and beyond.
- Its adoption by youth networks and organisations.
- Most importantly, the commitment of states and decision-makers to translate its recommendations into policies and budgets.
The Conakry Declaration is now a powerful symbol. It represents a generation that no longer wants to be consulted on an ad hoc basis, but instead wants to take its rightful place on the political agenda and in steering change.
Download the Conakry Declaration
Conakry Declaration – English
1.40 mb
Conakry Declaration – French
1.21 mb
Categories: Youth empowerment
Related pages
