Lawyer PLO Lumumba Urges African Youth to Take Center Stage in Social Change and Transformation

Kisumu County – Renowned lawyer Prof. PLO Lumumba emphasized the pivotal role African youth should play in transforming society during a public lecture held at the Mama Grace Onyango Cultural and Social Centre. His remarks come following the city’s endorsement to host the 5th World Blacks and Africans Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) in 2024.

According to a new release by Kenya News Agency, the lecture focused on the “Role of the Youth in Shaping Africa’s Future” and encouraged young individuals to embrace culture and become competitive on a global scale. “You should be competing with the world and not with yourself or the neighboring countries. Are you prepared to compete with Indians and South Koreans?” he stated.

Prof. Lumumba, who also serves as the Director of the Kenya School of Law, contextualized FESTAC in the framework of pan-Africanism. He highlighted the contributions of young African leaders and icons such as Marcus Garvey, Kwame Nkrumah, Robert Mongolisu Sobukwe, Julius Nyerere, and Winnie Mandela. “They were young, passionate, and prepared to die for their countries,” Lumumba noted.

The lawyer underscored that youth have historically been the catalysts for change in various sectors including the political arena. He cited examples of influential figures who made significant contributions at a young age. “When Chinua Achebe wrote ‘Things Fall Apart’ in 1968, he was only 22 years old, and when Fadhili William wrote the song ‘Malaika,’ he was in his 20s,” he added.

He further emphasized that the young population should not discard their cultural heritage but strive to offer teachings to preserve their languages. “With cultural dynamism, the future of Africa rests on the youth’s shoulders, and you must be prepared to surmount the challenge,” he said.

The Chairman of FESTAC, Mr. Yinka Abioye, also took the opportunity to inform the gathering about the history and objectives of FESTAC. The forthcoming event scheduled from May 20-26, 2024, is expected to attract over 10,000 attendees from different countries and tribes to showcase their diverse cultures. Abioye urged local and neighboring small and medium traders to capitalize on the occasion. The festival will feature various sporting activities and confirmed participation from NBA professional basketball players in the U.S.

Abioye concluded by encouraging any talented youth to showcase their skills and abilities. “Be always ready to show their mettle and be discovered by the world,” he said.