Ekyooto: A Cross-Generational Fireside Conversation with Ambassador Arikana Chihombori Quao

In July 2023, the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) convened Ekyooto—a cross-generational fireside conversation that brought together student leaders, policymakers, civil society representatives, Pan-African advocates, and development practitioners for an evening of reflection on Africa’s future and the role of young people in shaping it. The dialogue featured Ambassador Arikana Chihombori Quao, a renowned Pan-Africanist and former African Union Ambassador to the United States.

The discussions explored themes of African identity, self-sustenance, leadership, economic liberation, history, culture, and the importance of intergenerational knowledge transfer. Through keynote reflections, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, participants examined the challenges confronting the continent while reaffirming the vision of a united, self-reliant, and prosperous Africa.

More than a conversation, Ekyooto served as a platform for inspiring young leaders to embrace Pan-African values, understand Africa’s historical journey, and actively contribute to building the future envisioned by the continent’s founding leaders.

Read the full report and magazine to explore the conversations, reflections, and key messages that emerged from this unique gathering.

Key Events (Table of Contents Highlights)

1. Introduction
2. Welcome Remarks
3. Self-Sustenance: Ideology and Practice
4. The Mind
5. The Legacy of Colonisation in Africa and of Slavery Outside Africa
6. Africa Divided into Tiny Little Economies
7. The Question of Multinationals: Is Africa Really for Africans?
8. Slavery and Brain Drain
9. Panel Discussion: African History, Culture and Identity
10. Everyday Leaders: Leading to Contribute to Self-Sustenance
11. Young, African and Free
12. Question and Answer Session
13. African Literature and Decolonisation
14. Africa’s Economic Dependency and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
15. Reflections from Youth Leaders and Pan-African Advocates
16. Historical Reflections by Mr. Damian Courtland Cook
17. Vote of Thanks and Closing Reflections
18. Call to Action for Africa’s Future