The African Forest Forum (AFF), the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) and the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) have launched the AfricanYouth4Forests (AY4F) initiative, which is dedicated to empowering young people to address sustainable forests.
AY4F is an initiative led by AFF, SLU and KEFRI and supported by the Youth Advisory Council (YAC), which provides strategic oversight and guidance on key issues affecting youth participation in the forestry sector.
AFF, in a statement issued on March 31, 2025, said the launch of AY4F, through SLU and KEFRI, will enable young professionals, students and entrepreneurs in the forestry sector in Africa to further develop their skills in the field.
The statement continued by saying that AY4F will serve as a collaborative space where members can exchange ideas, share best practices and create new solutions to advance forest conservation, strengthen climate resilience and unlock green economy opportunities.
It said that through knowledge sharing, capacity building, and networking, AY4F aims to equip young Africans with the tools and resources needed to address major environmental challenges and contribute meaningfully to sustainable forest management.
It said other tasks include organizing live discussions that will take place from March 31 – April 11, 2025, from 12:00 Noon – 2:00 PM East African Time, (09:00 AM – 11:00 AM GMT) online via Howspace.
The discussions will aim to engage in collaborative discussions from the first and second weeks through live networking that will help engage young people in collaborative learning and sharing of experiences.
Prof. Labode Popoola, Executive Secretary-CEO of AFF, stressed the importance of engaging youth in forestry issues.
“We recognize the critical role that youth play in shaping the future of forests and forest resources in Africa. By providing an inclusive and participatory space, we are developing the next generation of forest leaders and equipping them with the skills and knowledge to drive positive change,” said Prof. Popoola.
KEFRI Executive Director, Dr. Jane Njuguna said they are proud to partner with AFF and SLU on this AY4F initiative, which empowers youth to play a greater role in environmental stewardship and sustainable management of our forests.
SLU Global Director, Ms. Sara Gräslund said the role of African youth in sustainable forests is crucial in rethinking sustainable forest management.
Ms. Sara said there is a huge opportunity in recognizing this and working with young professionals and students who are driving climate resilience, unlocking green economy opportunities and shaping the future of forests.
The launch of the AY4F Community of Practice is in line with AFF’s broader mission to promote sustainable forest management and ensure that Africa’s forests continue to deliver essential ecological, social and economic benefits.
In partnership with SLU and KEFRI, the initiative will facilitate research collaborations, mentoring programs, networking, and policy discussions to enhance youth engagement in forest and environmental management.
Youth changemakers, students, educators, activists, scientists, experts and policymakers in the forest sector are invited to join the AY4F Community of Practice and be part of this transformational journey towards a greener and more sustainable Africa.
The statement said to join the AY4F Community of Practice click here
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