Model African Union 2019

Friedrich Ebert Stiftung -AU Cooperation office in collaboration with the African Union, UNICEF and Save the Children have co-organized the 2019 Model Africa Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from Nov 11-15, 2019 under the theme ‘’ Children Today, Youth Tomorrow: A Smooth Transition’’. This five-day featured workshop and plenaries led by inspiring trainers, journalists, AU officials and UN experts, who shared their experience and ideas on how to become an active African citizen and the road they must take to contribute for the socio-economic development of the continent. Close to hundred participants, which includes students, journalist, and activists from 50 African countries took part on the program. Model Africa Union, also known as Model AU or M-AU, is an extra-curricular activity in which participants typically roleplay delegates to the Africa Union and simulate different AU committees. This role-playing element helped young the participants to understand the AU’s priorities, structures and functions, and build their strategic skills for effective decision-making, Strategy development and implementation.

During the conference representatives from Africa Union, United Nations, and Save the Children briefed participants how they can be part of African renaissance and a driver of change.  Ms. Hanna Tetteh, Special Representative of the Secretary-General to the African Union and Head of the United Nations Office to the African Union, shared her life-long experience regarding what it takes  to be an  active participant and citizenry. Also, Ms.Aya Chebb, first special Envoy on Youth, also shared her experiences as a continental advocate for the Africa Union. At the end, participants left with a tool kit, and a network of support – knowing that they a responsibility to continuously engage in the continental matter.