By Baboloki Semele: The African Union Commission (AUC) has officially launched the inaugural State of Volunteerism in Africa Report, marking a significant milestone in recognising the transformative role of volunteerism particularly youth-led initiatives in driving the continent’s development agenda. The launch coincided with International Youth Day celebrations and comes ahead of the 2026 International Year of Volunteers. Speaking on behalf of AU Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Deputy Chairperson H.E. Amb. Selma Malika Haddadi emphasised that Africa’s future lies in the hands of its young people, whose energy, creativity, and commitment are central to building “The Africa We Want.”

“This day calls us to recognize the extraordinary power of youth to turn aspiration into action, especially where change is needed most. Africa’s renewal begins with young people who do not wait, but lead with ingenuity and resolve,” she said.

The report, prepared in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through its Volunteers Programme, documents the impact of volunteerism across the continent, highlighting its role in advancing Agenda 2063, flagship initiatives such as the One Million Next Level (1MNL), and national development strategies. Amb. Haddadi praised the African Union Youth Volunteer Corps (AU-YVC), established in 2010, for recruiting, training, and deploying hundreds of young professionals across Africa. “Volunteerism is not an interruption in one’s professional journey, but a powerful enrichment of it,” she affirmed, noting that youth volunteers have contributed to policy reforms, operational improvements, and strengthened Pan-African unity. The Deputy Chairperson called on AU Member States to institutionalise volunteerism in line with the African Youth Charter, develop robust youth policies, and integrate volunteer programmes into broader employment and development strategies. Looking ahead, the AUC urged stronger evidence-based advocacy to unlock resources and shape impactful policies. Amb. Haddadi concluded with a pledge: “Let us champion volunteerism not only as a means of empowering Africa’s youth, but as a driving force for our shared journey toward The Africa We Want.”

The State of Volunteerism in Africa Report is expected to serve as a critical resource for policymakers, development partners, and civil society organisations seeking to strengthen youth engagement and scale up volunteer programmes continent-wide.