BUJUMBURA, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- The fifth African Union (AU) Continental Dialogue on Youth, Peace and Security and Women, Peace and Security has kicked off in the Burundian commercial capital Bujumbura, calling on African leaders to encourage youth and women to take initiatives aimed at sustainable development.
The three-day dialogue, which began Monday, is being held under the theme "Water, Peace and Inclusive Leadership in Africa: Institutionalizing the strategic role of youth and women in conflict prevention, crisis management and sustainable peacebuilding through responsible resource governance."
Attended by youth and women delegates from across the African continent, the event gathered high-level dignitaries and representatives from the United Nations and continental bodies.
In his opening remarks, Chairperson of the AU and Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye emphasized that properly addressing water management issues is essential to securing lasting peace and sustainable development across the continent.
"Sustainable peace in Africa cannot be set up without fair and responsible management of our resources especially water which is a source of life and development, but also a source of tension when its management is inadequate", said Ndayishimiye.
He also commended the commitment and determination of young people and women to contribute to building a more sustainable future for the continent. He said that the common enemy is poverty, adding that "we must unite against it."
The UN secretary-general's special envoy for the Great Lakes region, Huang Xia, recalled the recognition of the role of young people in building their future. He emphasized the importance of investing in human capital to transform Africa's demographic potential, particularly that of young people, into a dividend of peace.
In his remarks, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Bankole Adeoye stated that young people and women are not simply beneficiaries, but rather champions and catalysts for conflict prevention, conflict resolution, and African solutions to African problems. He said that women and young people must participate in the development of public policies, influence decision-making, and play a leading role in peacebuilding. ■