Uhuru Kenyatta to African Youth: No one is coming to save us You are the last line of Defence
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has issued a powerful call to Africa’s youth, urging them to rise as the custodians of a self-reliant, united continent.
Speaking at the second annual Guild Leaders’ Summit held at Makerere University, Kenyatta challenged young leaders to view themselves as the final guardians of Africa’s future.
“You are the last line of defence in the battle to rescue the heart and soul of Africa,” he declared, capturing the spirit of urgency and empowerment that echoed throughout the summit.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta at the Second Annual Guild Leaders' Summit at Makerere University, Uganda on April 24, 2025/OOFPCiting the inward turn of developed nations, Kenyatta described the current moment as Africa’s new “independence era,” where the continent must forge its own path.
Addressing the economic challenges facing the region, Kenyatta spotlighted intra-African trade, which accounts for less than 2.5 per cent of global commerce.
He called for the removal of barriers to trade and free movement, emphasizing innovation, unity, and youth-led transformation as critical tools for progress.
“No one is coming to save us,” he told the crowd of university guild leaders and student delegates.
“As the world turns inward, the places to seek refuge are disappearing. You are the freedom fighters of this generation.”
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta at the Second Annual Guild Leaders' Summit at Makerere University, Uganda on April 24, 2025/OOFPKenyatta underscored the pivotal role of universities, describing them as “incubators of change,” and reminded students that they are “trustees of tomorrow’s Africa.”
Also addressing the summit was Uganda’s Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, who called for unwavering commitment to unity, Pan-Africanism, and hard work.
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“You must embrace the spirit of Pan-Africanism,” she urged.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta at the Second Annual Guild Leaders' Summit at Makerere University, Uganda on April 24, 2025/OOFPHowever, she also acknowledged the gap between rhetoric and real progress.
“It is easy to say these words. The challenge lies in collective implementation.”
Organised by the Guild Presidents Leadership Academy, the summit served as a rallying point for East Africa’s youth to confront the continent’s challenges with boldness and purpose.
As global solidarity recedes, the summit marked a turning point for African agency—and a generation ready to shape history.
