Vice President Kashim Shettima of Nigeria and President Bassirou Faye of Senegal are set to attend the first conference of the Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni Association of Nigeria (MWFAAN) in Abuja on November 20-21. Themed “Shaping Africa’s Future through the AfCFTA and Agenda 2063,” the event aims to unite African leaders, policymakers, and young innovators to lay a framework for sustainable development across the continent.
According to MWFAAN President Farida Yahaya, the conference will focus on three key objectives: crafting a sustainable development blueprint, celebrating the fellowship’s achievements over the past decade, and envisioning Africa’s economic future over the next ten years. The event is expected to attract young ministers from Ghana and Morocco, parliamentarians, and over 25 African countries, bringing together stakeholders to bridge the gap between the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and youth-driven businesses.
Yahaya highlighted the “Helix model” approach as a centerpiece of the conference, aiming to create a collaborative framework that includes government agencies, non-profits, and private-sector leaders to drive cohesive development.
The conference will feature a series of interactive sessions, including a pitch competition for young African entrepreneurs, a high-level panel discussion, a city tour for international delegates, and the launch of an app designed to enable African entrepreneurs to trade with both African and U.S. partners. Additionally, the event will host workshops on topics ranging from open governance and press freedom to healthcare and women’s empowerment.
The conference will culminate with a Hall of Fame induction ceremony, honoring 100 young African change-makers who have made significant contributions to their communities and the continent.
