Jobs and climate action are top priorities of young people in Africa.

First, why are you here at the UN headquarters in New York?

I'm here as the African Union Youth Envoy. And that's part of efforts being made to ensure that young people are at the forefront of development. I was invited by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) President [AmbassadorCollen Vixen Kelapile] to participate in a special high level dialogue roundtable discussion. I spoke about Agenda 2063 and the Africa We Want, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. It is also part of strengthening the partnership between the AU and the UN. So, it's been amazing. I've been hosted by the AU Permanent Observer to the UN, Ambassador Fatima Kyari Mohammed. I also received support from the office of the Deputy Secretary-General.

You were appointed the AU Youth Envoy a few months ago. What are your priorities?

My priorities include focusing on the young people across Africa and ensuring that I amplify their voices in all the 55 member states of the African Union. On policy, we advocate for youth voices at the decision-making table. I am honoured to have the opportunity to present the needs of young Africans before the relevant bodies. I get to ensure that when we speak on issues that affect Africa-whether it's post-COVID recovery, education, or unemployment-that the proposed solutions take into account the needs of young people who constitute the largest population segment in Africa.

Is there anything that has surprised you so far in your work?

Let me focus on the positive aspect of what has surprised me. Everywhere I've been, I hear young people's voices. I've been surprised also to see many advocates for young people, including decision-makers and policy experts. And they are doing great things across the continent. They have many best practices that we could replicate to drive the agenda to achieve the Africa that we want.

What's come up the most is youth livelihoods. They also want us to focus on accelerating efforts on tackling issues related to climate change and adaptability, climate finance, and climate education.

What are young Africans telling you?

I am doing listening tours at the moment. I have visited many communities in Africa. And my office recently carried out a digital survey to learn about the priorities of young people over the next two years. What's come up the most is youth livelihoods. They also want us to focus on accelerating efforts on tackling issues related to climate change and adaptability, climate finance...