Innovation for Empowerment and Development (IFED Global) is celebrating its 10th anniversary with the Africa Youth Festival, a transformative gathering of young people from across the continent. This milestone marks a decade of impactful youth-centered initiatives, including the International Youth Diplomacy and Global Junior Model United Nations Conference.
In partnership with the National Youth Authority and the Ghana Tourism Development Company (GTDC), IFED Global will host 2,000 young Africans—including students, entrepreneurs, and young professionals—for a five-day festival designed to empower, educate, and inspire.
Festival details
The festival is scheduled to take place from November 5th to 9th, 2025, with the main events happening at the University of Ghana, Legon. The grand Opening Ceremony will be held at The AVI Event Centre in Accra, Ghana.
This year’s theme, “Reflect, Review & Reset: Igniting the Future of Africa’s Youth,” sets the tone for dialogue, skill development, and cultural exchange, positioning the festival as a platform for young people to reimagine their roles in shaping the continent’s future.
High-impact skill development
A major highlight of the festival will be the intensive skill development sessions across ten career fields. To ensure that the training is relevant and impactful, IFED Global has partnered with leading institutions to develop a cutting-edge curriculum. Participants have been carefully selected to meet specific career quotas as follows:
- Vocational and Technical Skills Enhancement Programme – 10%
- Creative Arts Talents Enhancement Programme – 10%
- Youth in Agribusiness Programme – 10%
- Women’s Wealth-Building Training Programme – 5%
- Healthcare Innovation and Skill Enhancement – 10%
- Social, Developmental and Climate Action Skills Enhancement – 10%
- Information, Communication & Technology Skills Enhancement – 10%
- Entrepreneurship Training Programme – 15%
- Governance and Leadership Training Programme – 10%
- Model United Nations (MUN) and Diplomacy Training – 10%
IFED Global has expressed gratitude for the curriculum and training support provided by partners including ALX, HO2WO, A&P Intern Connect, and the UGBS Entrepreneurship Hub.
Presidential endorsement and key speakers
The festival has received a significant endorsement from the Office of the President. His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama has delegated the Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment to represent him at the opening ceremony on November 5, 2025, reaffirming the government’s support for youth empowerment initiatives. This endorsement marks a historic first for the pan-African youth initiative.
The event will also feature a distinguished line-up of leaders from the fields of business, politics, and finance, including:
- Hon. George Opare Addo, Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment
- Mr. Farihan Alhassan, Managing Director of Ghana Commercial Bank
- Mr. Julius Neequaye, Chief Executive Officer of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA)
- Mr. Kofi Amoa-Abban, Chief Executive Officer of Rigworld Group
- Mr. Afetsi Awoonor, Chief Executive Officer of BOST
IFED Global also anticipates strong support from corporate bodies to ensure the success of the event.
Cultural exchange and networking
Beyond training, the Africa Youth Festival promises vibrant social, cultural, and networking experiences aimed at strengthening unity among African youth.
- Global Village & Musical Concert: A night of exhilarating performances featuring delegates and top African artistes.
- Advocacy: Campaigns focusing on drug abuse prevention and the responsible use of social media.
- The African Market: An exhibition platform showcasing youth innovation in technology, fashion, and crafts from different African countries.
- Africa Youth Games: A thrilling lineup of sports competitions, including football, athletics, and basketball, to promote teamwork and fitness.
- Afro Jollof Battle: A lively culinary showdown celebrating Africa’s rich and diverse cuisines.
Grand celebration and awards
The festival will conclude on November 8th and 9th with a two-day cultural exploration and awards celebration. Delegates will embark on an educational tour of Ghana’s historical landmarks, including coastal forts, traditional villages, and Accra’s iconic sites such as the Black Star Square and the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum.
The grand finale will feature a special dinner and awards ceremony, honouring outstanding participants and celebrating the collective achievements of Africa’s young changemakers.
IFED Global’s Africa Youth Festival stands as a testament to a decade of dedication to youth empowerment, innovation, and collaboration—shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the next generation of African leaders.
