African Union Young Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP): An Opportunity for Cape Verde

The African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP) The African Union programme represents an ambitious and vital programme that aims to empower African youth to play an active role in peacebuilding, development and the promotion of good governance in their countries and on the continent as a whole. This programme, recognising the transformative power of youth and the need to actively involve young people in conflict resolution and the promotion of stability, offers a unique platform for talented and dedicated Cape Verdeans to contribute to a more prosperous and peaceful future.

Cape Verde, with its reputation for political and social stability and its commitment to peace and regional cooperation, is in a privileged position to benefit significantly from this programme. The participation of young Cape Verdeans in the AYAP not only strengthens the country's social fabric, but also promotes the exchange of knowledge and experiences, consolidating Cape Verde's position as an influential player in promoting peace and security in West Africa.

The benefits of integrating young Cape Verdeans into the AYAP programme are manifold. Firstly, the programme offers an exceptional opportunity for personal and professional development. The young ambassadors receive intensive training in crucial areas such as conflict resolution, mediation, human rights, good governance and sustainable development. These skills empower them to be effective agents of change in their communities and at national level, enabling them to tackle local challenges with greater confidence and knowledge.

Secondly, participation in the AYAP fosters the creation of valuable networks and partnerships. Young ambassadors have the opportunity to interact with peers from across Africa, as well as with influential experts and leaders in various fields. These connections facilitate the sharing of knowledge, collaboration on projects and the creation of innovative solutions to common challenges. For Cape Verde, this means access to a wide network of support and opportunities to collaborate on development and peace-building projects across Africa.

In addition, by strengthening the participation of young people in decision-making and governance, AYAP contributes to the consolidation of democracy and the rule of law in Cape Verde. On returning from the programme, young ambassadors can take on leadership roles in civil society organisations, in local or national politics, or in community development initiatives, promoting accountability, transparency and citizen participation. In this way, the programme contributes to building a fairer and more inclusive society.

Finally, participation in the AYAP raises Cape Verde's profile at continental and international level. By actively involving its young people in the initiative, Cape Verde demonstrates its commitment to peace, security and sustainable development in Africa. This attracts positive attention and can generate opportunities for collaboration and investment in various sectors, boosting the country's economic and social growth. Joining and actively participating in this programme strengthens Cape Verde's image as a leading country and a model of stability in the region.

Considering the benefits mentioned above, we request support to identify and support talented and dedicated young Cape Verdeans to participate in the AYAP programme. Our goal is for this initiative to create a new generation of leaders committed to a peaceful and prosperous future for Cape Verde and Africa.

Applications: Applications must be submitted by 15 December 2025.
For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.peaceau.org/en/article/african-youth-ambassadors-for-peace-ayap-call-for-application-for-the-4th-cohort