Addis Ababa, April 6, 2025 (FMC) — African youth representatives have praised Ethiopia’s exemplary role in advancing Africa’s development and integration agenda.
Taban Paride Lakasomoi, President of the South Sudan Youth Council, lauded Ethiopia’s initiatives and commitment, describing it a powerful example of leadership in driving African integration and fostering future development.
“Ethiopia, the mother of the entire continent, is currently recognized as Africa’s fastest-growing nation,” Lakasomoi remarked.
He emphasized initiatives such as the Green Legacy program and advancements in green energy and technology as models for other nations.
These efforts, he stated, contribute to a collective path toward prosperity and innovation. Lakasomoi expressed confidence in Ethiopia’s continued rapid development, predicting even greater progress within the next five to six years, and urged other African nations to emulate its example.
He emphasized, “Ethiopia stands as the mother of Africa, showcasing remarkable growth as the continent’s fastest-growing country and the success of initiatives like the Green Legacy and advancements in green energy reflect Ethiopia’s commitment to sustainable development.
“The country’s impressive technological progress sets a strong example for other African nations,” he added.
Lakasomoi also expressed Ethiopia’s commitment to African unity through its support and hosting of key pan-African programs, including the Pan-African Youth Leadership Summit.
Neema Sheikh Abdikadir, Vice Chairperson of the Kenyan Commonwealth Youth Council, also praised Ethiopia’s strategic role in regional integration, describing it as a blessed land of cultural and religious significance.
“Ethiopia, a giant nation and host of the African Union headquarter, is also the foundation of our continent,” Abdikadir stated. “It has played a vital role in regional integration and in unifying Africa by supporting initiatives and programs that foster African unity and integration.”
She urged other African countries to follow Ethiopia’s example in fostering development and integration across the continent.
Rosy Schaneck, a representative from the Namibian Commonwealth Youth Council, also acknowledged Ethiopia’s rich history and pivotal role in promoting continental unity.
“Ethiopia boasts a rich history and is home to the African Union headquarters here in Addis Ababa,” Schaneck noted. “It has been central to integrating the region, and its strategic location provides unique opportunities for engagement with both Africa and the broader global community.”
Despite this being her first visit to Ethiopia, Schaneck expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and encouraged others to explore the country’s deep history, cultural diversity, and potential opportunities, as per ENA.