📸 2025 Afro-Arab Youth Congress kicks off in Kampala
Rugunda, the congress’ special envoy, warmly welcomed all international and local guests who graced the first day of the event, and spearheaded the fundraising drive for the sh535 billion ($150 million), meant for the construction of AAYC International Headquarters.
The four-day congress, intended to unite youth leaders, policymakers and innovators from across Africa and the Arab world, is being held under the theme: 'Amplifying Youth Voices for Peace, Unity and Prosperity.' (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)
AFRO-ARAB YOUTH CONGRESS
KAMPALA - The 2025 Afro-Arab Youth Congress (AAYC) has officially opened today (Tuesday, October 7, 2025) at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Uganda’s Capital, Kampala.
The 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rukia Nakadama, who represented Vice President Jessica Alupo, presided over the opening ceremony on day one of the event that is scheduled to run till Friday, October 10, 2025.
The four-day congress, which intends to unite youth leaders, policymakers and innovators from across Africa and the Arab world, is being held under the theme: 'Amplifying Youth Voices for Peace, Unity and Prosperity.'
The 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Rukia Nakadama, who represented Vice President Jessica Alupo, arrives for the ceremony. (All Photos by Miriam Namutebi)
Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, the Special Envoy for special duties in the Office of the President, spearheaded the fundraising drive for the sh535 billion ($150 million), meant for the construction of AAYC International Headquarters.
Former Uganda’s Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, also the Special Envoy for special duties in the Office of the President, is the congress’ special envoy, and warmly welcomed all international guests who graced the first day of the event.
Rugunda also spearheaded the fundraising drive for the sh535 billion ($150 million), meant for the construction of AAYC International Headquarters.
The said offices are to be constructed in Nakawuka, Wakiso District, and will be the permanent seat of the AAYC Secretariat and a regional hub for youth engagement between Africa and the Arab world.
Afro-Arab Youth Congress (AAYC) Secretary General Hon. Dr. Abbas Agaba remarks.
Libyan delegates were present during the event
Museveni to officiate closing ceremony
Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni will on Friday (October 10) officiate the congress’ closing ceremony.
Meanwhile, over 1,000 delegates, including youth ministers, development partners, and regional leaders, have graced the event.
About the Afro-Arab Youth Congress (AAYC)
The Afro-Arab Youth Congress is an international platform that brings together young people from Africa and the Arab world to promote peace, unity, and development through dialogue, innovation, and partnership.
Established in 2004 in Khartoum, Sudan, following the inaugural Afro-Arab Youth Festival that drew over 3,000 participants, the AAYC has since grown into a key movement bridging two regions with shared aspirations and challenges, including youth unemployment, education, and social inclusion.
Uganda hosted the Afro-Arab Youth Congress in 2008 for the first time, marking a milestone in Africa–Arab youth collaboration. Hosting the 2025 edition again underscores Uganda’s leadership in youth empowerment and South–South cooperation.
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Below is a picture highlight from the first day of the 2025 Afro-Arab Youth Congress (AAYC) at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, all photos by Miriam Namtebi;
