Innocent Matekere, a former BSc. Environmental Science and Management student from the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies (DGES) in the College of Natural and Applied Sciences at the Sokoine University of Agriculture, has once again demonstrated his exceptional talent and leadership skills. Emerging as the first runner-up in the prestigious Youth Leadership Competition, Matekere showcased his innovative ideas on promoting intra-Africa trade to unlock agricultural potential in the continent. The essay competition was aimed at African citizens aged 18-25.
The competition’s theme, presented as a question – “If you were an African leader, how would you promote intra-Africa trade to unlock agricultural potential in Africa?” – allowed over 1,150 participants from across Africa and beyond to delve into strategies for fostering agricultural growth and trade within the African continent.
This is not the first time Matekere has excelled in a competition. Last year, in 2022, he emerged victorious in the essay writing competition organized by African Organization for Standardization (ARSO) and Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS). This previous success further highlights Matekere’s dedication and expertise in addressing critical issues related to trade and development.
The award ceremony for the Youth Leadership Competition took place on May 25, 2023, marking a significant moment for Matekere and his fellow winners. The event, attended by esteemed political and business leaders from across Africa, celebrated their achievements and recognized their potential as young leaders in shaping Africa’s future.
During the ceremony, Matekere received a prize of USD 1500 and a certificate, underscoring the recognition of his outstanding performance and contributions.
The award ceremony, hosted by African Leadership Forum (ALF), was graced by distinguished leaders including H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA); H.E. Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania and Patron of the ALF; Kadari Singo, CEO of Uongozi Institute; H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the current President of Ghana; H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria; H.E. Dr. Mohamed Moncef Marzouki, former President of Tunisia; H.E. Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of Nigeria; H.E. Thomas Boni Yayi, former President of Benin; H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia; H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, former Prime Minister of Ethiopia; and H.E. Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, former President of Sierra Leone. Their presence emphasized the significance of the event and highlighted the importance of nurturing young African leaders like Matekere.
Matekere’s accomplishments not only bring pride to his alma mater, Sokoine University of Agriculture, but also reflect the potential for young Africans to drive positive change and development in the agricultural sector. With his visionary ideas and commitment to promoting intra-Africa trade, Matekere stands as a role model for aspiring leaders passionate about unlocking Africa’s agricultural potential.
