Young people from Russia and Africa are joining forces for a sustainable multipolar future: “African Youth Day 2026” was held in
Moscow.
MOSCOW, May 24, 2026 — The State Central Museum of Contemporary History of Russia hosted the year’s key humanitarian event, “Africa Youth Day 2026.” The forum, under the motto; Unity of Nations and Sustainable Development became a platform for large-scale dialogue between young people and high-ranking diplomats.
Vision of the future: Greetings from Luis Gouenda
The opening ceremony was led by Louis Gowende, President of the African Club and the forum main organizer. He emphasized that today, Russia and Africa are synchronizing the African Union Agenda 2063 and Russia focus on the Year of Peoples Unity. The organizer announced the launch of the Ambassadors of the Russian-African Club program and preparations for the international business forum Russia-Africa Expo 2027.
State recognition and strategic partnership
The event was given special significance by the participation of Violetta Nikolaevna Medvedeva, Chair of the Board of the Moscow Regional Branch of the International Public Foundation Russian Peace Foundation, which acted as the general partner of the event.
In a ceremonial setting, Violetta Medvedeva announced the appointment of Luis Gowenda as the official representative of the Peace Fund in African countries. During the ceremony, participants were also presented with certificates of honor and medals from the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, signed by Leonid Eduardovich Slutsky.
The role of the platform and greetings from Pavel Sapotko
The forum co-organizer, the Youth Council of the State Central Museum of Contemporary History of Russia, played a particularly important role in organizing the event. Thanks to its support, the event was held in a historic building in the heart of Moscow, on Tverskaya Street.
In his address, Pavel Sapotko, Chairman of the Museum Youth Council, welcomed the guests and emphasized the venue commitment to supporting projects aimed at strengthening international dialogue. He noted that the Museum not only preserves the memory of the past but also actively contributes to the creation of a modern history of Russian-African partnership, ensuring a high level of organization and comprehensive support for youth initiatives.
Mentoring and diplomatic experience
Anicet Gabriel Kochofa, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Benin (2012–2016) and Ambassador of Russian Education and Science, delivered a powerful and inspiring speech. As an associate professor at Moscow State University and a legendary figure in international cooperation, he offered insightful advice to the youth, noting that their energy is key to the prosperity of both regions.
The forum was honored by the presence of H.E. Asghed Petros Tseggai (Ambassador of Eritrea), as well as high-ranking advisers of the Embassy of Gabon in the Russian Federation – Mr. Ontsugu Rolland Georges and Ms. Bayni Akimova Diana-Priska.
Technologies and social projects
A significant event in the educational sphere was the announcement by Vladimir Zinovievich Golobokov (advisor to the rector of MTUCI), who presented the university-developed Artificial Intelligence Olympiad for African universities, which opens new avenues for scientific and technical exchange.
The event organizational strength was provided by co-organizer Natalia Zeferovna Nigamedyanova (Chair of the ANO Path to Unity head of RosAF-Youth), Ambassador of the Pan-African and Caribbean Regions, and Member of the Moscow Association of Entrepreneurs!
Cultural synthesis and musical greetings
The festive atmosphere was created by outstanding figures of art:
• Opera singer Margarita Shagina and her children, talented musicians Mark (violin) and Timofey (saxophone).
• Representative of RosAF-Youth Anna Gorbotenko.
• Tatyana Tataeva’s team organized costumed Russian folk games that involved all the guests in a circle of friendship.
The fashion section attracted particular attention. Ms. Emaiqwu Patience Onyeamoche (founder of PATOCH Gardner Home) presented a stunning display of African clothing. As a sign of friendship, designer Anastasia Maximovna Vdovkina presented the African ambassadors with unique gifts—original Russian folk clothing, symbolizing their deep respect for each other traditions.
Media and public response
The event was covered by major media holdings: RIA Novosti, Sputnik Africa, Rossiya Segodnya, the African Initiative agency, as well as dozens of African bloggers who provided broadcast coverage of the forum to the entire world.
The Final Chord: A Trip to the Past for the Future
The eventful program concluded with an exclusive tour of the State Central Museum of Contemporary History of Russia. Participants and guests of the forum were able to explore exhibits chronicling the most important stages of our country development, a symbolic conclusion to a day dedicated to construction. New common history of Russia and Africa.
The organizers would like to thank their partners: the Russian- African Club of Moscow State University, the Russian Peace Foundation, the African Business Club, the Patoch Gardener House, the RosAF-Youth project, RUDN University, and others.