As young Africans, we now and again envy how developed other countries, be it in Europe, America or Asia, are. However, worry not. It is about time that other kids from other countries look at Africa and see beyond the nice safaris or the nature we have. Africa is never going to be the same again.
In painting this portrait of the ‘Africa we want’, 17 goals were set to ensure we just do not develop but we are able to maintain this development. These goals are known as the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
These Goals aim to go further to end all forms of poverty. The new Goals are unique in that they call for action by all countries, poor, rich and middle-income to promote prosperity while protecting the planet.
They recognize that ending poverty must go hand-in-hand with strategies that build economic growth and address a range of social needs including education, health, social protection, and job opportunities, while tackling climate change and environmental protection.
These 17 SDGs are not legally binding, which means it is up to youth to take ownership and work together with the authorities in making sure that jobs are created, there is clean water, poverty is no more, no one sleeps on an empty stomach, there is gender equality and there is quality education.
It is critical that youth in Rwanda are part of the implementation process of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Youth should be involved in localizing the global goals to suit the Rwandan context.
Youth are the torchbearers of the 2030 Agenda – young people all over the world are contributing to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Here are a few easy ways you can get involved:
Get involved in a local NGO
Participating in a local NGO is a worthwhile way of supporting sustainable development efforts. NGOs are constantly working with the authorities towards a better and sustainable society. Volunteering o getting involved in NGO processes will ensure you contribute your thoughts rand ideas to build a developed and sustainable country.
Get engaged in local politics
The engagement of young people in local politics is crucial to raising awareness of youth-related issues and demanding change. Youth should compliment the efforts made by local authorities or people who hold public office. This will enable them to contribute towards actual societal change.
Join Youth4Peace to help promote and maintain international peace and security
Youth4Peace is an UN-led initiative that supports young people’s participation in peacebuilding. It recognizes that young people play active roles as agents of positive and constructive change and helps them achieve this. Get involved here: https://www.youth4peace.info/