Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Thursday headlined a high-level interactive forum with winners and alumni of the Future Africa Leaders Awards in Lagos, Nigeria, underscoring Africa’s growing focus on youth-driven leadership.
Held at the modern Omnia Towers in the heart of Lagos, the session brought together young innovators, entrepreneurs, policy thinkers and civic leaders from across the continent for candid conversations on leadership, governance and Africa’s future.
The two Kenyan statesmen were warmly received by participants, many describing the engagement as rare and transformative, offering direct access to leaders who have shaped national and regional politics over decades.
Uhuru urged young Africans to embrace principled leadership anchored on integrity, unity and service, saying the continent’s future would depend less on speeches and more on ethical decisions made by a new generation.
Drawing from his presidency, Uhuru emphasised economic integration, peace and institutional strength, noting that Africa’s youthful population presents both an opportunity and a responsibility requiring disciplined, visionary leadership.
Kalonzo Musyoka challenged the award winners to remain courageous and values-driven, warning that leadership without moral grounding risks betraying the very communities it seeks to serve.
The former Vice President-designate highlighted diplomacy and dialogue as essential tools for Africa, encouraging young leaders to pursue peaceful solutions even in highly polarised political environments.
Participants engaged the leaders in open discussions on youth inclusion in governance, climate action, entrepreneurship and the role of technology in transforming African economies.
Several award winners shared personal journeys of community impact, innovation and advocacy, drawing praise from Uhuru and Kalonzo for translating ideas into measurable social change.
Uhuru noted that African leadership must evolve beyond personality politics, stressing institutions, continuity and accountability as pillars for sustainable development.
Kalonzo echoed the sentiment, urging young leaders to protect democratic spaces and resist the temptation of short-term gains that undermine long-term national stability.
The Future Africa Leaders Awards programme recognises outstanding young Africans driving change in governance, business, education, health and social innovation across the continent.
Organisers said the Lagos forum aimed to bridge generational leadership gaps by creating spaces where emerging leaders learn directly from experienced statesmen and women.
Photos from the event captured animated exchanges, moments of laughter and reflection, and symbolic handshakes representing continuity between Africa’s past, present and future leadership.
Kenya’s presence at the forum reinforced the country’s growing role in continental conversations on leadership, peacebuilding and youth empowerment.
As the session concluded, participants left with renewed optimism, carrying lessons on resilience, service and responsibility, and a shared belief that Africa’s future leadership is already taking shape.
