The second Billi Now Now! (BNN) Youth Summit has commenced at MoTIV Bugolobi, Kampala.
The event brings together young leaders from Africa and beyond. These are equipped with the tools to connect and contribute to Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework for socio-economic development.
The three-day summit is being implemented by Reach A Hand Uganda under the theme “Brave and Coordinated Youth Action in Advancing Agenda 2063”.
The event has attracted delegates from Kenya, South Sudan, Peru, Ethiopia, Benin, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Uganda, and Rwanda to catalyse the development of tailored initiatives and action plans that drive tangible change.
Some of the topics to be discussed include the inseparable link between sexual and reproductive health and mental health while calling for increased advocacy for comprehensive health initiatives within communities.
The summit is also looking at amplifying the voices of young Africans towards increasing access to critical services, education, and advocacy in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
In her remarks, Evelyn Anite, State Minister of Finance for Investment and Privatisation, promised governments support towards addressing the high taxes levied on the raw materials used to produce sanitary products.
On her part, Achieng Akumu, the Regional Director of PPG, said, “This is your opportunity to amplify your voice and learn the tools that will help you embrace your destiny. It’s also very important for you to understand your power dynamic and the role you must play regarding accountability. This is 2024 and young people are the largest population on this continent. How do you own that responsibly and engage with those that hold the power so that you can access and implement your rights?”
Day one event also featured a panel session titled “Echoes of Progress” – which highlighted the achievements and goals of the BNN Movement and urged the youth to prioritise accountability and action.
Speaking during the panel discussion, James Tumusiime, the Country Director of Reach A Hand Uganda, said, “We want to thank PPG for giving us this opportunity once again. We believe that this is an opportunity to learn from one another as several partners have come together to share a lot of the programming that influences and affects the health and wellbeing of young people.”