- Uhuru told the youth that “tomorrow” leadership is a trap.
- He urged young people to act as leaders now.
- The message was delivered at an IGAD alumni conference in Nairobi.
- Speakers stressed ethical leadership and regional unity.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has delivered a strong message to young Africans, urging them to stop seeing themselves as future leaders and instead step up as leaders of today.
Speaking on Tuesday at the IGAD Leadership Academy annual alumni conference in Nairobi, Kenyatta warned that waiting for leadership roles in the future could delay Africa’s progress.
“If you continue believing you are the leaders of tomorrow, that tomorrow will never come,” he told hundreds of delegates.
He challenged the youth to act now, saying their ideas, bravery, and personal commitment are what will shape Africa’s future.
“You are the leaders of today. Your ideas, your courage, your personal commitment will shape the future of Africa,” he said.
Kenyatta reminded the audience that many of Kenya’s independence heroes achieved great things at a young age. He cited leaders such as Tom Mboya and Kenneth Matiba, who played key roles in shaping the country while still in their twenties.
He said these examples show that age should never be an excuse for inaction.
The conference, held at the Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club, was themed Harnessing youth leadership to drive Africa’s growth. It brought together IGAD alumni, diplomats, and regional leaders to celebrate ethical and responsible leadership in the Horn of Africa.
Kenyatta praised current youth-led efforts in social justice and humanitarian work, saying the gathering itself was proof that Africa’s renewal has already begun.
IGAD Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu supported the message, saying Africa’s challenges are not destiny but the result of human choices.
He stressed the need to invest in young people and build strong cross-border networks to help the next generation make better decisions for peace and cooperation in the region.
Nominated Senator Crystal Asige urged the youth to pursue leadership with humility, discipline, and purpose. She noted that real leadership goes deeper than ambition and requires strong values and inner grounding.
International support for youth empowerment was also highlighted, with contributions from Finland’s Ambassador Riina-Riikka Heikka and Japan’s Deputy Chief of Mission Tomonobu Hori.
The conference closed with a shared message: Africa’s future is already in motion, and its leaders are not waiting for tomorrow.
