African Young Leaders Convergence 2026 Held in Freetown
By: Sorie Sesay
President Julius Maada Bio has called on African youths to embrace courage, integrity and accountability as key drivers for the continent’s transformation during the 2nd Julius Maada Bio Leadership Colloquium – African Young Leaders Convergence 2026 held at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown on Tuesday, 12 May 2026.
The convergence, organised as part of President Bio’s 62nd birthday celebration, brought together young leaders from across Africa to discuss youth leadership, governance and development under the theme: “From Potential to Power: Unlocking Youth Agency for Africa’s Transformation.”
Delivering welcome remarks, the Minister of Youth Affairs, Ibrahim Sannoh, described the gathering as a platform aimed at strengthening unity among African youths and promoting collaboration for the continent’s development.
He said President Bio’s administration has demonstrated confidence in young people by appointing many youths to key government positions, urging participants to remain courageous, hardworking and innovative in creating opportunities for themselves and their communities.
Speaking on the topic “Bold Voices, Brave Futures: Shaping Africa’s Future through Youth-Led Initiatives,” Faud Gena called for increased youth participation in leadership and governance across Africa.
He noted that unemployment remains one of the continent’s biggest challenges, affecting the livelihoods of millions of young Africans. Gena further urged African institutions to create space for young people to contribute innovative ideas, particularly in information technology and digital transformation.
In his keynote address, President Bio described the African Young Leaders Convergence as a gathering of visionary leaders, thinkers and young change-makers committed to building a resilient, inclusive and prosperous Africa.
“Africa continues to face enormous challenges, but the quality of leadership we provide today will determine the future of our continent,” President Bio said.
He stressed that the convergence was not merely a ceremonial event but a call to action for Africans to promote good governance, accountability and transformational leadership.
President Bio also reaffirmed his confidence in young people, noting that his own leadership journey began at a young age, an experience he said strengthened his belief that youths are central to Africa’s future leadership and development.
