By Damilola Olufemi

Nairobi, Kenya The Youth Democracy Network (YDN) convened its Africa and Middle East & North Africa (MENA) Regional Meeting in Nairobi, bringing together 26 emerging leaders selected from more than 700 applicants across the region. The convening marked a major milestone in strengthening youth participation in governance, peacebuilding, and democratic leadership.

Held from February 17-21, the meeting focused on Youth, Peace, and Security,with discussions examining the role of young leaders in rebuilding public trust in democratic institutions and advancing inclusive governance across their respective countries. Participants represented diverse sectors, including civil society, public policy, media, and social entrepreneurship, reflecting the growing influence of youth voices in shaping democratic futures.

Delegates engaged directly with major international and national institutions, including the United Nations Office at Nairobi and the Parliament of Kenya.

These engagements provided participants with firsthand insight into policymaking processes and the institutional frameworks that support democratic governance and multilateral cooperation.

A key highlight of the convening was the participation of Emmanuel Aje,Nigeria’s representative under the Community of Democracies Youth Democracy Network.

While speaking during a session at the Kenyan Parliament, Aje presented Nigeria’s proposed Gender Manifesto Bill,an initiative aimed at strengthening inclusive governance and expanding opportunities for women and young people in political leadership in Ondo State.

He emphasized the urgency of institutional reforms that ensure equitable participation, noting that youth-led policy engagement remains essential to sustaining democratic progress.

Aje also received strategic feedback and institutional perspectives from policymakers and governance experts on how to effectively advance the initiative within Nigeria’s legislative and civic landscape.

He described the engagement as both timely and critical, highlighting the importance of cross-regional collaboration in strengthening democratic systems.

In addition to policy dialogue, the convening featured intensive capacity-building workshops covering public speaking, strategic communication, proposal development, and civic mobilization.

These sessions were designed to equip participants with practical tools to translate democratic values into measurable civic action within their home countries.

The Nairobi meeting concluded YDN’s regional cycle, following similar convenings in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Americas. The network now connects over 100 emerging democratic leaders across more than 80 countries, fostering cross-regional collaboration and long-term partnerships aimed at advancing accountable governance and civic participation globally.

Implemented under the auspices of the Community of Democracies, the Youth Democracy Network continues to play a critical role in preparing the next generation of leaders to engage institutions, influence policy, and strengthen democratic resilience in their communities.