Pan-African advocate and media personality Godfrey “Chief” Koti has urged African leaders to invest in young people's skills and capacity so that they meaningfully participate in the development of the continent.
Chief Koti, as he is affectionately known, made these remarks during public engagements and meetings while on a visit to Lusaka in Zambia recently.
The visit underscored Chief Koti’s unwavering commitment to Africa’s ascension on the global stage.
While in Zambia, Chief Koti discussed issues around sports, tourism and trade with the corporate world and government leaders.
The meetings were aimed at fostering collaboration and devising robust plans to tap into Africa’s vast resources and potential.
“As a Pan-African, my goal is not to occupy political positions, but to ensure that our leaders work closely with the youth,” Chief Koti told Standard Style.
“They are the true drivers of our economy.”
Africa’s young population, which constitutes over 60% of the continent's demography, stands as a testament to Chief Koti’s belief.
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The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority head of digital marketing also highlighted the necessity of tapping into the entrepreneurial spirit of Africa’s youth.
“If you are not investing in Africa, where are you investing? Africa is the new frontier,” he said.
Chief Koti stressed the importance of developing financing mechanisms and capacity-building facilities
“However, they lack appropriate financing mechanisms and capacity-building facilities,” he said.
Chief Koti addressed the need to strengthen intra-trade between Zimbabwe and Zambia.
He noted the importance of balancing and enhancing trade relationships to equalise the trade deficit between the two nations.
By promoting robust intra-trade, both countries can benefit mutually and foster economic growth.
Koti also urged political leaders to fully embrace the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which promises to create a single market for goods and services, facilitating the free movement of businesspersons and investments.
“AfCFTA can potentially lift 30 million Africans out of extreme poverty and increase incomes by 7% by 2035,” he said.
Chief Koti emphasised the critical role of the continent’s financial institutions in supporting youth through tailored financial services.
With African youth unemployment rates hovering around 60%, improved access to credit and financial education could unlock tremendous potential and spur innovation and sustainable development.
