Youth Call for Building a Better Future in Benishangul-Gumuz Region

At a youth dialogue in Assosa, organized by the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) with Ybuntu (Youth Peace Building Alliance) and the Benishangul Gumuz Development Associations Network (BGDAN), young people from across the region voiced a clear and urgent message: A future of peace and prosperity depends on meaningful youth inclusion.

The workshop provided a space for open discussion, enabling participants to share experiences and propose solutions to the pressing challenges they face. Youth from diverse backgrounds emphasized their desire to become proactive agents of peace and development - but also highlighted the barriers holding them back.

Key Demands and Concerns

Participants pointed to limited opportunities to engage in advocacy, leadership, and community decision-making. During the workshop, critical questions like how to ensure real political inclusion and what social and economic barriers are holding youth back emerged, capturing common frustration over the lack of institutional support and civic education. Many noted the absence of youth centers where they could build life skills, find career guidance, and participate in positive social activities.

High unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, and restricted access to education and healthcare further compound inequality. Access to entrepreneurship resources remains scarce, leaving many young people without viable economic prospects. Youth with disabilities face even greater hurdles, with minimal targeted support, as the participants stated.

Participants urged policymakers to recognize the region’s youth as essential partners in Ethiopia’s ongoing National Dialogue and peacebuilding efforts. They recommended expanding similar dialogue sessions to the woreda and kebele levels to sustain momentum and strengthen youth networks.

The youth of Benishangul-Gumuz are sending a powerful message that investing in their empowerment is not optional; it is the cornerstone of a peaceful and prosperous future for all.