Event Report: Young Democracy Union of Africa Conference on Digital Democracy and AI in Rabat

The Young Democracy Union of Africa (YDUA) successfully hosted its 2025 Annual Conference from June 22 to 27 in Rabat, Morocco, under the theme “Democratising Africa in the Age of Social Media and AI: The Centre-Right Youth Agenda.” The event took place at the ONOMO Rabat Terminus Hotel and other venues around the city, gathered young leaders from across the continent to meet with policymakers, party representatives, academics, and experts from across Africa and Europe and explore how new technologies are reshaping democracy and governance on the continent. 

The conference opened on June 23 at the Istiqlal Party Headquarters with a vibrant opening ceremony. High-profile figures such as HE Nizar Baraka, General Secretary of the Istiqlal Party, Mr. Kiirya Ismail, President of YDUA, and Prof. Dr. Michael Dust, representing the International Young Democrat Union (IYDU), delivered welcoming remarks that set the tone for the week. Contributions from the Democratic Union of Africa and KAS, through Dr. Holger Dix, further underscored the importance of cooperation and dialogue among centre-right youth movements and the importance the Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung in promoting political dialogue and fostering democracy. 

Speakers examined opportunities for reengineering partnerships, addressing Africa’s needs, but also Africa’s contribution. The day continued with a site visit to the Moroccan House of Representatives, where participants observed live parliamentary proceedings, followed by a workshop on countering misinformation and fake news. The evening concluded with a dinner and dialogue session with Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Mr. Ryad Mezzour, fostering direct exchanges between policymakers and young leaders. 

Throughout the following days, the programme covered a rich array of topics relevant to Africa’s digital democratic future. Discussions included how artificial intelligence is reshaping political landscapes, the impacts of misinformation and the need for regulation, and how youth movements can transform hashtags into meaningful social and political revolutions. Regional discussion groups allowed delegates from North, East, West, and Southern Africa to share their unique perspectives and practical strategies for integrating youth voices in governance. 

On June 25, participants gathered at the Moroccan Parliament to explore the role of AI in elections, digital mobilization, and migration challenges for African youth. Speakers from Morocco, Ghana, Malawi, and other countries highlighted both the risks and the transformative potential of AI for strengthening democratic processes. 

June 26 was dedicated to YDUA’s internal business, including the presentation of reports, constitutional amendments, and elections of a new board to guide the movement over the coming year. This resulted in the election of the new board represented by: 

• President: Hon. Marwa El Ansari (Istiqlal Party, Morocco) 

• Vice President: Mr. Kpomgbe Christian Olam Amenyo (FDR, Togo) 

• Secretary General: Ms. Beatrice Njeri Macharia (DP, Kenya) 

• Deputy Secretary General: Mr. Adepo Francis (FDC, Uganda) 

• Chair, Communication and information committee: Mr. Nkunkabaloleu Patrick Seugueu (PDCI-RDA, Cote d’Ivoire) 

• Chair, elections and monitoring committee: Mr. Kebe Foday Mohamed (NGC, Sierra Leonne)  

• Chair, Human rights and Gender affairs committee: Ms. Mwangu Atemo Lucy (KANU, Kenya) 

• Chair, International Relations Committee: Mr. Mulato Jonas (UNITA, Angola) 

• Chair, Legal and constitutional affairs committee: Mr. Melvin Cephas T (Unity Party, Liberia) 

The delegates had the opportunity to enjoy a cultural and touristic excursion around Rabat in the afternoon, celebrating both the city’s heritage and the network’s diversity. On the last evening, delegates came together in traditional country attire for a farewell cocktail dinner, a conference declaration signing, the awarding of certificates and recognitions, and a spirited networking session. 

Throughout the week, the conference reinforced the central role of young people in defending and advancing democratic values in a fast-changing, technology-driven environment. Participants left with a renewed commitment to building stronger partnerships, promoting good governance, and harnessing innovation to support democracy across Africa.