Youth advocate for reforms in AfCFTA to fight poverty in Africa

The Institute for Liberty and Economic Education (ILEE) has launched a new program. They partnered with African Students for Liberty (ASFL) to create the Cheetah Generation Amplifier Programme. This initiative focuses on youth leadership training in Africa.

The program aims to identify and nurture active young citizens. Participants will learn about free-market principles and policy advocacy skills. They will also connect with a network of changemakers focused on economic growth.

A major goal is to prepare youth for roles in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Since its start, AfCFTA has faced challenges, especially in innovation among businesses. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) often struggle with limited access to finance.

In an interview, Prof Enock Opoku Antwi discussed trade barriers affecting intra-African trade. He noted that poor infrastructure, like lack of direct flights and rail systems, hinders progress. These issues must be addressed for AfCFTA to reach its full potential.

At the launch event, Eric Coffie from ILEE spoke about the program's goals. He said it aims to develop future leaders who can influence policy. "We want to empower young leaders with tools to engage in policy discussions," he stated.