Dar es Salaam, Tanzania , Imara Leadership Initiative (ILI) in Tanzania has brought together 20 youth leaders from 20 African countries for the Women and Youth in Democracy (WYDE) Civic Engagement Accountability Hubs Fellows Training. The program, implemented by the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD) alongside the Kofi Annan Foundation, the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), and the Oslo Center, focuses on empowering young leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to strengthen democratic governance across the continent.
Empowering the Next Generation of African Leaders
Through this training, fellows are gaining practical skills in financial and political accountability, democratic leadership, and project management. By equipping youth leaders with these tools, the Accountability Hubs initiative aims to amplify their voices in decision-making spaces and enable them to champion better governance, inclusion, and peace in their respective countries.
As part of the EU-funded WYDE Civic Engagement initiative, Accountability Hubs work to close the gap between young people and democratic processes, ensuring that Africa’s youthful population can take an active role in shaping more accountable and inclusive societies.
Why Democracy Matters for Youth and Women ?
Democracy, the rule of law, and human rights are under increasing pressure worldwide. Sub-Saharan Africa, with 70% of its population under 30, holds a critical stake in the future of democratic governance. Yet, young people particularly those from marginalized backgrounds remain underrepresented in parliaments, political parties, and decision-making processes. Structural barriers such as limited access to education, economic constraints, and insufficient civic awareness further hinder their participation.
Quoting the late Kofi Annan, whose vision continues to inspire this initiative: “Young people should be at the forefront of global change and innovation.” The WYDE Civic Engagement project embraces this call by supporting the rise of young leaders committed to accountability and transparency.
Building Resilient Democracies Through Accountability Hubs
The Accountability Hubs project is created to provide a platform for youth leaders to collaborate and design innovative accountability solutions, the initiative fosters positive role models who can lead by example in their communities.
Through shared learning, cross-country collaboration, and practical training, the program empowers youth leaders to play a decisive role in shaping Africa’s democratic future. By supporting their growth, Imara Leadership Initiative and its partners aim to strengthen the resilience of democratic institutions and promote more peaceful, inclusive, and stable societies across the continent.
About Imara Leadership Initiative (ILI):
Imara Leadership Initiative is dedicated to building ethical, accountable, and transformative leaders in Tanzania and across Africa by focusing on youth empowerment, leadership training, and democratic engagement, ILI plays a vital role in shaping a new generation of leaders who are prepared to address the challenges of governance and development.
For partnerships and inquiries information please contact us via Ms. Sarah Masuma | Programmes Lead E-mail: info@imaraleadership.org
