The Deputy Commandant of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong, has emphasized the crucial role of mentorship in the professional and personal growth of individuals, especially the youth.He noted that mentorship provides a platform for knowledge transfer, talent development, and valuable guidance for those navigating their careers and personal lives.Speaking at the launch of a youth development program by KAIPTC, Air Commodore Akrong explained that the initiative aims to empower young Africans to contribute actively to peace and security efforts across the continent.
The program aligns with the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2250, which focuses on involving youth in fostering peace, preventing conflict, and supporting sustainable development.Air Commodore David Anetey Akrong further explained that the youth development program is designed not only to educate but also to mobilize young people across Africa to become advocates and active participants in peacebuilding processes.
By equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge, the program aims to build a new generation of leaders who can contribute to sustainable peace and security on the continent.He stressed that involving young people in these efforts is vital for addressing the root causes of conflict and preventing future instability.
By engaging youth, the program ensures that their voices are heard and that they have a seat at the table in discussions about Africa's peace and security landscape.Madam Teresa Kraft of GIZ praised the initiative as a timely and necessary intervention, emphasizing that peacebuilding efforts should focus more on the energy, creativity, and potential of young people.She reiterated the German government's commitment to strengthening its partnership with KAIPTC, providing both technical and financial support to scale up the peace and security agenda with a focus on youth involvement and expressed optimism that this collaboration would yield meaningful and lasting outcomes for peace in Africa.