- June 8, 2023
- Posted by: Communications Team
- Category: Blog, Updates
The LéO Africa Institute hosted a Gathering of fellows alongside the Africa Impact Forum 2023, a biannual meeting of the Africa Leadership Initiative (ALI) network. The event aimed to maximize the impact of Fellows through their professional work, targeted ventures, or thought leadership, addressing pressing social and economic challenges on the continent, such as poverty, inequality, youth unemployment, climate change, and environmental degradation.
During the Fellows Gathering, a panel discussion titled “A Leadership in Crisis – Perspectives from the Youth” sought fresh insights and innovations to tackle longstanding issues in Africa. Moderated by YELP Fellow Fiona Mbabazi, the discussion included Huduma Fellow Edgar Mwine among its participants.
Following the panel, breakaway peer consultancy sessions focused on various thematic areas, including agriculture, climate change, health, independent journalism, regional integration, tech, and innovation. These sessions built upon the ideas and discussions from the panel.
LéO Africa Institute Fellows also had the privilege of speaking at the Africa Impact Forum (AIF), which strengthens the Africa Leadership Initiative (ALI) Fellows network and explores collaborative opportunities. Themed “Adaptive Leadership in Uncertain Times,” AIF 2023 brought together ALI Fellows from across the continent and the world in Kigali, Rwanda, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
Continuing the spirit of “The Ali Mufuruki Africa Impact Dialogue Series,” which commenced at AIF 2020 in Ghana, the second bi-annual panel in this series aimed to unite and collaborate for a more unified Africa. The late Ali Mufuruki, a champion of this dream, was honored.
LéO Africa Institute Founder Awel Uwihanganye, together with Dr. Laila Macharia, Chairperson of ALI East Africa and Board Member of the LéO Africa Institute, spoke at the Ali Mufuruki dialogue series during AIF 2023. They shared their experiences and progress in combating corruption as ALI Fellows.
YELP Fellow Isaac Rugamba led a breakaway discussion on “Adaptive Leadership in Uncertain Times,” featuring Fiona Mbabazi, a member of the LéO Africa Institute Board of Directors, and Huduma Fellows Edgar Mwine, Juliet Grace Luwedde, and YELP Fellow Wanjuhi Njoroge.
Catherinerose Barretto, a LéO Africa Institute Board and Faculty member, joined Huduma Fellow Mwine Edgar in a session highlighting Africa’s contributions to global learning. They discussed the opportunities to utilize African experiences to address global problems.
The AfCFTA, the largest free trade area since the establishment of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), presents an opportunity to uplift millions of Africans out of poverty. The aim is to incorporate 1.3 billion people into a single USD 3.4 trillion economic bloc.
During a panel discussion, Fiona Mbabazi spoke about the practical implementation of the AfCFTA at all levels of society, creating economic opportunities for everyone.
Wanjuhi Njoroge and Juliet Grace Luwedde provided valuable insights to ALI East Africa Fellow Dr. Kigozi Maggie on climate change and its impact on Africa’s political, economic, and social aspects. Their conversation explored how African countries are addressing climate change risks, implementing strategies, tools, and policies to effectively respond to the changing climate’s impact on livelihoods, cultures, economies, and the environment.
The LéO Africa Institute participated in the Impact Forum as a partner organization of the ALI East Africa Network and co-convener of the youth leaders’ session.