Youth Advocate for Reforms in AfCFTA to Fight Poverty in Africa

A diverse group of young African men and women, smiling and engaged, pose for a group photo indoors at what appears to be a conference or training event. Many are holding certificates or placards with text related to AfCFTA and economic empowerment. In the foreground, a large yellow banner with "STUDENTS FOR LIBERTY A FREER FUTURE" is displayed. Several individuals are seated in chairs in the front row, while others stand behind them. The background shows hints of a hotel setting with "Airport View Hotel" visible on some signs.

The Institute for Liberty and Economic Education (ILEE), in collaboration with African Students for Liberty (ASFL), has launched the Cheetah Generation Amplifier Programme—a transformative youth leadership training initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing young, active African citizens.

The programme equips participants with a deep understanding of free-market principles, policy advocacy skills, and access to a vibrant network of changemakers committed to driving economic growth and innovation across the continent.

A key focus of the programme is preparing Africa’s youth to play active roles in shaping policies under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Since its inception, AfCFTA has faced several challenges, notably the lack of innovation in Africa’s private sector, especially among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which often struggle with limited access to finance and operate with a survival mindset rather than innovation-driven strategies.

In an interview with Class Media Group, award-winning Leadership and Management Prof Enock Opoku Antwi highlighted the importance of removing trade barriers to enhance intra-African trade.

He cited inadequate infrastructure, including the absence of direct flights and interconnected rail systems, as major obstacles that must be addressed to realise AfCFTA’s full potential.

Speaking at the event, Eric Coffie, Executive President of ILEE, emphasised that the Cheetah Generation Amplifier Programme is designed to groom future African leaders capable of influencing policy and promoting economic freedom.

“Our goal is to empower the next generation of African leaders with the tools and mindset needed to actively engage in policy discourse and drive the continent’s transformation,” he stated.

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