The Guinean government, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and other stakeholders, has launched an initiative aimed at combating irregular migration and promoting youth empowerment. The "Our African Dream" project, led by Bakary Serge Fofana, seeks to encourage young people to stay in Guinea and build their futures. The initiative includes a center, "La Boîte à Idées," which will provide young people with a space to share their ideas, receive training, and access mentorship.
The launch event, held on September 25, brought together government officials, representatives from the IOM, civil society, and numerous young people. The event's theme, "Rester, construire ou revenir: comment redéfinir le rêve africain?" (Stay, build, or return: how to redefine the African dream?), sparked discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing young Guineans. According to Fofana, the initiative aims to address the root causes of irregular migration, including unemployment, lack of training, and limited opportunities.
The IOM has reported that 33,096 Guinean migrants have returned voluntarily over the past four years, often after experiencing violence, abuse, and economic hardship. Harouna Souaré, representing the IOM's chief of mission in Guinea, emphasized the need for collective responsibility in addressing migration. He noted that when young people have access to real opportunities, skills, and support, they can become key actors in their country's development.
Lansana Béa Diallo, Minister of Youth, highlighted the paradox of African youth seeking to leave the continent despite its vast potential. He stressed that young people do not leave their countries due to a lack of love, but rather in search of opportunities, employment, and dignity. Diallo emphasized the importance of providing young people with concrete reasons to believe in Africa's future, citing the Simandou 2040 vision, which aims to transform Guinea's natural resources into human capital.
The Guinean government has implemented various projects to combat irregular migration, including the SABATI project, which mobilizes the diaspora to support local development initiatives. Ibrahima Sory Touré, Director General of Guineans living abroad, called for collective action against irregular migration, emphasizing the need for concrete policies and opportunities for young people.
The "Our African Dream" initiative is part of a broader effort to address the root causes of irregular migration and promote youth empowerment in Guinea. By providing young people with access to education, training, and mentorship, the initiative aims to encourage them to stay in Guinea and contribute to the country's development.
The launch of the "Our African Dream" initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges facing young Guineans. With the support of government officials, the IOM, and other stakeholders, the initiative has the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of young people in Guinea and beyond.
Key points
- The Guinean government launches "Our African Dream" initiative to combat irregular migration and promote youth empowerment.
- The initiative includes a center, "La Boîte à Idées," which will provide young people with a space to share their ideas and access training and mentorship.
- The IOM reports that 33,096 Guinean migrants have returned voluntarily over the past four years, often after experiencing violence, abuse, and economic hardship.
