Empowering youth to influence SDG implementation: Key takeaways for collective action

For the third time, a selected group of 25 youth leaders from across Africa took part in the Danida Fellowship Centre’s learning programme, Empowering Youth to Influence SDG Implementation, coordinated and facilitated by 2030Beyond. Muyinda Reagan, one of the participants, shares his key takeaways.

By Reagan Muyinda

On 2 June, we – a group of 25 young African leaders – arrived in Denmark for a packed three week learning programme to gain knowledge, build networks and get inspiration on how to act on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda. As a group, we represented the Youth Sounding Boards affiliated with the Danish embassies in Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, as well as the EAC–YouLead Africa initiative.

I joined the programme as part of the East African Community delegation that included representatives from all East African Community (EAC) member states. Personally, I took part in dual capacities: as a participant in the East African Youth Peace Network (EAYPN), which is an umbrella body of youth organisations within the EAC, and as the partnerships and fundraising coordinator for YouLead Africa, a joint effort of the MS Training Centre for Development Cooperation (MSTCDC) and the East African Community (EAC).

As a Danida fellow, my time in Denmark was filled with a range of enriching activities that made a lasting impression on me. One of the most memorable experiences was our visit to the Home of the Disabled, where I was genuinely fascinated by the thoughtful design of the facility. Every detail appeared to be meticulously crafted to meet the residents’ needs, showcasing a strong commitment to inclusivity. Another highlight was our visit to the Danish Parliament, where we engaged in meaningful discussions with parliamentarians, gaining valuable insights into their legislative processes. However, the pinnacle of my experience was attending the People’s Democracy Festival in Bornholm. It was captivating to witness individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to discuss the present and future of democracy, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas that celebrated civic engagement and collaboration.

The learning programme in Denmark provided invaluable insights that will significantly inform both my work and that of my colleagues. Here are my key takeaways – and how I plan to apply them.

From the Folkemøde to the YouLead summit
My experience at Folkemødet highlighted the critical need to shift towards creating summits and conferences that empower young people to engage in discussions and dialogues, rather than merely listening to their leaders and policymakers. This realisation has profoundly impacted me, and I am committed to implementing this approach as we prepare for the Youlead summit this year. The vibrant interactions I witnessed among young people demonstrated the immense power that exists in their conversations. It became clear to me that we must prioritise youth-led discussions to ensure that the Youlead summit is a platform where their voices are not only heard but celebrated. This focus on fostering genuine dialogue will be essential in shaping the future we aspire to create together.

Stakeholder mapping
But before all that, mapping and understanding one’s stakeholders is essential. Identifying key players and their interests is crucial for effective collaboration. By engaging relevant stakeholders, we can create a more inclusive and impactful network that addresses the challenges facing our communities.

Advocacy strategies
The programme also highlighted the significance of advocacy. Crafting persuasive messages that resonate with our target groups is vital. This skill will support our goal of launching the EAYPN at this year’s Youlead summit, helping us articulate our vision for peace and security.

Planning and implementation
Effective planning emerged as a key component for success. We need clear objectives, timelines and roles to ensure the revival of the EAYPN is structured and impactful. This strategic approach will guide our actions as we move forward.

Integration with EAC action plan
These learnings are directly relevant to our EAC action plan. The membership call for the EAYPN has already been published across all Youlead social media platforms, inviting young leaders to join our movement.

Additionally, we will collaborate with Youth Sounding Boards from various countries to amplify their projects. Initiatives like the Africa Unplugged  and Pulse Check-ins will showcase these efforts, providing platforms for visibility and engagement.

Focus of the country & EAC teams

• Team Kenya is addressing limited job readiness among youth through enhanced skills training, human rights education, and networking, aligning with SDGs 4, 8, and 17.
• Team Uganda is tackling high youth unemployment and limited access to financing with initiatives aimed at decent work and economic growth, targeting SDG 8.
• Team Ghana is focusing on achieving the SDGs through effective partnerships, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for sustainable development, aligning with SDG 17.
• Team Tanzania is working on improving access to quality education for underprivileged students by implementing educational programmes, teacher training, and infrastructure development, which aligns with SDG 4.
• Team EAC (East African Community)
  – Challenge: Conflicts within the East African region.
  – Solution: Creating a peace and security network to advocate for peace.
  – SDGs: Implicitly aligns with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).

Collaborative efforts at the Youlead Summit in Tanzania, Africa
At this year’s Youlead summit, which will take place 3 – 7 November under the theme Breaking Barriers, Building the Future – Youth Advancing Sustainable Development through Peace, Justice and Green Transition, all groups will host side events to foster collaboration and community engagement. Together, we aim to strengthen our network, advocate for peace and amplify youth initiatives across the region.

In conclusion, the DK programme not only equipped us with essential skills but also emphasized the power of collective action in driving sustainable development and peace in East Africa.

Reagan Muyinda is partnerships and fundraising coordinator, Youlead Africa. 

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