Youth Advocacy Africa and the University of Nairobi have signed a landmark Collaborative Agreement to launch AfroVox Forums,a major new platform aimed at amplifying youth voices and expanding young people’s role in national and continental development.
The agreement was formalized on Thursday at the University of Nairobi Council Chambers, establishing a long-term partnership centered on civic engagement, leadership development, innovation, and policy dialogue.
AfroVox Forums will convene young people, experts, and changemakers to discuss solutions to pressing social issues while equipping youth with the knowledge, confidence, and networks needed to thrive.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Dr. Antony Manyara, HSC, Founder of Youth Advocacy Africa, said the collaboration marked “a new chapter in empowering young Africans to shape the future they want.” He described AfroVox as a “historic movement for youth agency and leadership across the continent,” emphasizing the need to create spaces where young people can speak, be heard, and effect change.
Representing the University of Nairobi’s leadership, Mr. Jackson Maalu,Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance), said the agreement was “an investment in the next generation of African thinkers and doers.” He noted that teaming up with Youth Advocacy Africa reinforces the institution’s commitment to nurturing voices that will influence policy, innovation, and leadership across Africa.
Mr. John Orindi,Director of Corporate Affairs at the University of Nairobi, also reiterated the institution’s dedication to youth empowerment. He said AfroVox aligns with the university’s mission to foster informed, engaged, and innovative young leaders, adding that the collaboration would “inspire meaningful dialogue and equip students with the tools to contribute to national and regional development.”
Youth Advocacy Africa’s Executive Director, Elijah Koome, described the partnership as a strategic step in strengthening youth development across the continent. “Working with the University of Nairobi, a centre of global excellence, ensures more youth gain the confidence, networks, and practical skills to build meaningful futures and lead change,” he said.
Johnson Ireri Kinyua, Dean of Students at the University of Nairobi, highlighted the role of the partnership in expanding opportunities for young people. “This collaboration strengthens our commitment to nurturing students who are confident, skilled, and ready to lead,” he said.
The signing ceremony was attended by student leaders and dignitaries, including Purity Mutua,Vice President of the University of Nairobi Students Association (UNSA); Karia Tetu,Vice President of the Women Students Welfare Association (WOSWA); Fridah Kemunto”President Emeritus of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA); and Henry Kurauka,Youth Advocacy Africa Board Member and Legal Counsel.
Under the partnership, the AfroVox initiative will host dialogues, workshops, mentorship sessions, and conferences designed to strengthen civic participation and connect young people with leaders and policy experts from across Africa.
