You are the last line of defence, ex-president Uhuru tells youth

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has called on young people to take charge of Africa's future, emphasizing their critical role as the continent’s final line of defense.

While addressing the Guild Leaders Summit 2025 held at Makerere University on Thursday, April 24, Kenyatta encouraged African nations to chart their own course.

He pointed out that global powers are increasingly turning their focus inward, leaving Africa with the responsibility to define its own priorities and direction.

"You are the last line of defence in the battle to rescue the heart and soul of Africa for the sake of the future generations," Uhuru said.

"No one is coming to save us, and as the world turns increasingly inward, the places to seek refuge are rapidly disappearing."

During his speech to policymakers, student representatives, and academic leaders from across East Africa at Uganda's Makerere University, Uhuru emphasized the critical importance of leadership grounded in integrity and the pursuit of self-reliance as essential tools for addressing the continent’s urgent challenges.

He also pointed to Africa’s youthful population as a powerful asset.

He described this demographic trend as a key opportunity to overcome longstanding issues of corruption and disunity.

"You possess the numbers, the time, and the energy to actively participate and remain engaged in governance dialogues until the changes you envision become reality," he remarked.

Uhuru urged the youth leaders to support and champion policies designed for lasting impact, rather than those crafted to fulfill short-term personal or political gains.

The former president stressed the importance of Africans opening their borders to enhance trade, noting that the current intra-African trade volume, standing at just 2.5 %, was detrimental to the continent’s economic growth and overall prosperity.

“While history has often been dictated by the powerful, the future belongs to those who lead with principle,” Uhuru stated.

Uganda’s Vice President, Jessica Alupo, who also attended the event, underscored that the continent’s progress relies on their collective dedication to unity, Pan-Africanism, and tireless effort.

“As you, Guild Leaders, gather here, you must embrace unity, the spirit of Pan-Africanism, and a commitment to hard work,” Alupo urged.

The summit brought together young leaders from across East Africa, policymakers, and other key stakeholders involved in shaping the future of the African continent.