Windhoek: Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare on Monday called for increased youth participation in decision-making processes, saying Africa's future depends on empowering young people to shape governance and development on the continent. Ngurare made the remarks while officially opening the second African Management Development Institutes Network (AMDIN) conference in Windhoek on Monday. According to Namibia Press Agency, Ngurare emphasized that Africa's predominantly youthful population necessitates creating structured pathways for young people to participate meaningfully in leadership and policymaking. He warned that failure to do so could undermine future development prospects. Ngurare noted that African governments face increasing pressure to deliver efficient, people-centered services amid rapid technological change, climate-related challenges, and rising public expectations. Ngurare stressed that accountability and transparent governance remain central to effective public service, cautioning that leadershi p positions should not be used for self-enrichment but rather to build public trust. Held under the theme 'Transformative Public Service Leadership for Sustainable Development and Inclusive Growth in Africa', the conference has brought together delegates from across the continent to deliberate on governance, digital transformation, and inclusive development. Ngurare further highlighted the role of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in modernizing public administration, while stressing that human expertise must guide technological adoption to ensure inclusive outcomes. AMDIN President, Tombola Muke, described the conference as a platform for African countries to share knowledge and strengthen public sector leadership. Muke noted that Africa's most valuable resource lies in capable and ethical public servants rather than natural resources. He added that the network has grown to 21 member institutions since its establishment in 2005 and continues to promote capacity building, institutional devel opment, and innovation in governance. Both leaders reiterated the need for stronger collaboration among African countries to address shared challenges such as economic development, migration, and climate change. The three-day conference is expected to produce recommendations aimed at strengthening public service institutions and advancing sustainable development across Africa.