Innovation for Empowerment and Development (IFED Global) is marking its 10th anniversary with the Africa Youth Festival, a transformative five-day gathering that will unite over 2,000 young Africans from across the continent.
The milestone event, organised in partnership with the National Youth Authority (NYA) and the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC), will run from November 5 to 9, 2025. The opening ceremony is set for The AVI Event Centre in Accra, while the main festival activities will take place at the University of Ghana, Legon.
Held under the theme, “Reflect, Review & Reset: Igniting the Future of Africa’s Youth,” the festival will provide a platform for dialogue, skill development, and cultural exchange; celebrating IFED Global’s decade-long impact in youth leadership, innovation, and global diplomacy.
The initiative follows a decade of successful youth programs, including the International Youth Diplomacy Conference and the Global Junior Model United Nations, both of which have nurtured leadership and problem-solving skills among thousands of young people across Africa.
A core component of the Africa Youth Festival is its career-focused training program, designed to equip participants with practical skills across ten key sectors. These include:
•Entrepreneurship and Leadership Development (15%)
•Vocational and Technical Skills (10%)
•ICT and Digital Skills (10%)
•Creative Arts and Innovation (10%)
•Healthcare and Social Development (10%) •Agribusiness and Sustainability (10%)
•Governance and Diplomacy (10%)
•Climate Action and Community Development (10%)
•Women’s Wealth-Building (5%)
The curriculum is being developed in partnership with leading institutions including ALX, HO2WO, A&P Intern Connect, and the UGBS Entrepreneurship Hub, ensuring global relevance and practical outcomes.
READ: Bank of Ghana to launch Cedi@60 celebration on October 28
The Office of the President has endorsed the event, with President John Dramani Mahama delegating the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, Hon. George Opare Addo, to represent him at the opening ceremony. This marks the first official government endorsement of a pan-African youth event of this scale.
Other notable figures expected to participate include: Richard Nii-Armah Quaye, President of RNAQ Holdings; Farihan Alhassan, MD of Ghana Commercial Bank; Julius Neequaye, CEO of DVLA; Kofi Amoa-Abban, CEO of Rigworld Group; Afetsi Awoonor, CEO of BOST; and Beatrice Feehi Annangfio, Presidential Staffer.
Beyond its developmental focus, the festival will feature vibrant social and cultural activities including:
•Global Village & Musical Concert, showcasing performances from delegates and top African artists.
•The African Market, an exhibition of youth-led innovations in tech, fashion, and crafts.
•Africa Youth Games, featuring football, athletics, and basketball competitions.
•Afro Jollof Battle, a culinary competition celebrating Africa’s diverse cuisines.
•Advocacy campaigns against drug abuse and the negative influences of social media.
The festival will conclude with heritage tours of historic and cultural sites such as the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and Black Star Square, followed by a Grand Celebration and Awards Dinner to honour outstanding participants.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
