Economist, Development Specialist, Peace Expert, and Policy Advisor, Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, has on Tuesday, 4th August 2026 called for greater investment in Africa’s young people through innovation, quality education and inclusive economic growth, describing the continent’s youth as its greatest resource for sustainable development. Dr. Bangura made the call while delivering the keynote address at the China-Africa Youth Dialogue and Model United Nations (SIMUN) Conference 2026, held at the Tunde Cole Complex, Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone.
The conference, organised by the Sierra Leone International Model United Nations (SIMUN), brought together the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Zhao Yong and other Chinese delegates, members of the diplomatic community, academics and young delegates from across the country under the theme, “Building a Shared Future: Youth, Diplomacy, and China-Africa Partnership.”
Addressing participants, Dr. Bangura said Africa’s future would be determined not by the abundance of its natural resources, but by how effectively it prepares and empowers its young people to lead, innovate and compete in an increasingly knowledge-driven global economy.
He urged governments, universities, development partners and the private sector to prioritise investment in human capital, stressing that the future of China-Africa cooperation should extend beyond physical infrastructure to include knowledge transfer, skills development, research, entrepreneurship and technological innovation.
Speaking on the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Dr. Bangura observed that artificial intelligence, robotics, digital finance and renewable energy are transforming economies worldwide, and challenged African countries to become producers rather than consumers of innovation. He noted that while young Africans possess remarkable creativity, many continue to face barriers such as limited access to finance, quality education, mentorship and digital infrastructure.
The keynote speaker also emphasised the need for education systems across Africa to produce graduates equipped with practical competencies, critical thinking skills and entrepreneurial mindsets capable of creating employment and solving societal challenges.
Highlighting the importance of diplomacy and ethical leadership, Dr. Bangura encouraged the young delegates to embrace dialogue, integrity, service and evidence-based decision-making as they prepare for future roles in public service, business and international affairs.
Concluding his address, he challenged participants to view the Model United Nations not simply as an academic exercise but as preparation for real leadership, urging them to become active architects of Africa’s transformation.
“Do not merely prepare to inherit Africa,” he said. “Prepare to transform it. The future is not something that happens to us; it is something we build together.”
@DIB Movement Media & Comms Team