DON SANTO - Letter to the African Union

May 27, 2024

Dear H.E. Mahamat Moussa Faki (Chairperson, African Union Commission)

I am writing to and through you as the leader of the Klassik Royal Nation (Klassik Nation), founder & president of Global Media Ltd, an artist, producer, and entrepreneur with a profound passion for the future of our continent, Africa. It is with great urgency and respect that I address the critical need for active youth involvement in the governance and transformation of Africa. The current trend of merely paying lip service to youth engagement without genuine inclusion in decision-making processes must end. The youth are not just our future leaders; they are pivotal stakeholders today

Africa stands at a promising yet challenging juncture. Our youthful population is a tremendous asset, one that can propel the continent to unprecedented heights if harnessed effectively. The lessons from the European Union (EU), United Nations (UN), and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) provide us with strategic pillars that can guide us towards a more inclusive and prosperous future:

European Union (EU)
1. Economic Integration:
Single Market: The creation of a single market has facilitated the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people across member states

Monetary Union: The adoption of the Euro by many member countries has simplified transactions and enhanced economic stability within the Eurozone

2. Political and Legal Framework:
Treaties and Institutions: Foundational treaties like the Treaty of Rome and institutions such as the European Commission, European Parliament, and European Court of Justice ensure cohesive governance and legal uniformity

Common Policies: Policies on agriculture, competition, and trade have unified member states' approaches to various sectors

3. Social and Cultural Integration:
Erasmus Program: Educational exchange programs like Erasmus foster cultural exchange and understanding among European youth

Human Rights and Social Policies: Strong emphasis on human rights, social inclusion, and labor standards enhances social cohesion

4. Security and Foreign Policy:
Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP): Coordinated foreign policies and defense initiatives promote regional stability and global influence
Schengen Agreement: The removal of border controls among member states facilitates easier travel and security cooperation

United Nations (UN)
1. Peace and Security:

Peacekeeping Missions: Deployment of peacekeepers to conflict zones to maintain peace and security

Conflict Resolution: Mediation and conflict resolution efforts in international disputes

2. Development and Humanitarian Aid:
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A comprehensive framework aimed at addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change

Humanitarian Assistance: Provision of aid during natural disasters, conflicts, and humanitarian crises through agencies like UNHCR and UNICEF

3. International Law and Human Rights:
International Treaties: Promotion and enforcement of international treaties and conventions on human rights, disarmament, and environmental protection

Human Rights Advocacy: Monitoring and reporting on human rights violations and advocating for global standards

4. Global Health and Education:
WHO: Leading global efforts in disease prevention, health care standards, and health crisis response

UNESCO: Promoting education, science, and culture to foster global development and understanding

BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa)
1. Economic Cooperation:
Trade and Investment: Promoting intra-BRICS trade and investment to enhance economic growth and resilience
New Development Bank (NDB): Providing financial support for infrastructure and sustainable development projects within member countries

2. Political and Strategic Collaboration:
Multilateralism: Advocating for a multipolar world order and greater representation of emerging economies in global governance institutions like the IMF and World Bank

Diplomatic Coordination: Coordinating positions on global issues such as climate change, trade policies, and international security

3. Social and Cultural Exchange:
People-to-People Exchanges: Enhancing mutual understanding through cultural, academic, and professional exchanges

Educational Initiatives: Collaborating on educational programs and research to foster innovation and knowledge sharing

4. Technological and Sustainable Development:
Innovation and Research: Joint initiatives in technology, research, and development to address common challenges and leverage shared expertise

Sustainable Development: Commitment to sustainable development goals and cooperation on environmental issues such as renewable energy and climate change mitigation

These strategic pillars have enabled the EU, UN, and BRICS to navigate complex global challenges, promote stability, and foster sustainable development. Africa must adopt and adapt these strategies to our unique context

My optimism is vindicated by the recent African Development Bank report, which forecasts that Africa will account for eleven of the world’s 20 fastest-growing economies this year. Real GDP growth for the continent is expected to average 3.8 percent in 2024 and 4.2 percent in 2025, surpassing global averages. This progress is fueled by nearly 400 million Africans being online, leveraging technology to innovate, connect, and uplift their communities

We are not shy of talking about a possible African Century. To achieve this, we must prioritize continental integration, as envisioned by our forebears like Azikiwe, Nkrumah, and Nyerere. Integration through trade, open skies, visa policies, and infrastructure is essential. Furthermore, we must treat the minds of our youth as our fundamental resource, ensuring they receive quality education and access to cutting-edge technology, including Artificial Intelligence

We must also strengthen cooperation with the global community on trade, security, and climate change. Progress is visible, but challenges remain. Entrenching democracy, avoiding conflicts, and addressing humanitarian crises are crucial steps

In conclusion, the African Union must actively involve the youth in governance and transformational agendas. Their energy, creativity, and resilience are vital for our collective success. Let us move beyond rhetoric and ensure genuine participation, making tangible efforts to include young people in shaping our future
Yours sincerely

DON SANTO
Leader of the Klassik Royal Nation
Founder & President of Global Media Ltd and brands
Artist, Producer, and Entrepreneur