The Africa Regional Conference of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award ended yesterday at the Voyager Hotel in Mombasa, with calls to empower young people. 

Speaking to journalists at the closing ceremony of the three-day forum, Wale Edun, Chairperson of the International Council of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Association, hailed the conference as one of the most significant gatherings dedicated to delivering a globally recognised youth development programme. 

“These have been three days of intense discussions, strategic planning, and engagement—including with government stakeholders,” said Edun, who also serves as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. 

“The award encourages young people in their personal growth and development. It’s not just about recognition; it’s about preparing them for life.” 

Each year, nearly one million young people around the world participate in the Award programme, spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and beyond.  

Edun said the initiative holds unique value for Africa, a continent he described as “young” and is poised to produce a quarter of the global workforce within the next two decades. 

“Africa is where the youth are. This continent will fuel the global economy by paying pensions and taxes that sustain many other nations.”  

Edun was joined by Muhoho Kenyatta, Trustee of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation and Chair of its Africa Region, who also played a key role in opening the conference. 

“In a world dominated by screens and devices, many fear we’re losing touch with fundamental human connections,” he said. 

“The Award provides a counterbalance—building not only digital skills but also emotional intelligence, teamwork, and civic engagement. It helps young people find their place in society,” Muhoho stated. 

Martin Houghton-Brown, Secretary General of the Award Foundation, praised Kenya for having the largest cohort of Award participants in Africa.