In 2023, the 23-year-old Nigerian Faizah Atu Muhammad won first place in the Youth Leadership Competition organised by UONGOZI Institute. In the contest that attracted over 1,150 entries from across the globe, young Africans were asked to answer the question: If you were an African leader, how would you promote intra-Africa trade to unlock agricultural potential in Africa?
When a close friend of hers shared the advert with her, the 23-year-old responded, “I don’t think I remember how to write.” She was unsure if she would make it through to the top five. She continued, “But the topic really spoke to me. It was the pinnacle of all my previous reading and research, and it presented an opportunity for me to contribute my ideas on a platform that I held in high regard. So, I challenged myself to participate in the contest.”
In recognition of their achievement, Muhammad and four runners-up from Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and Cameroon were invited to attend the African Leadership Forum (ALF), hosted by the former President of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, and the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, H.E. Wamkele Mene, from 25 – 26 May 2023, in Accra, Ghana. H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, presented the five with their prizes at the forum’s gala dinner.
Attending the ALF, she said, was “awe-inspiring.” She explained how exciting it was for her to travel to Accra and meet the Ghanaian president, two past presidents of her country, and five other former heads of state and government. “Not many people my age experience that, I think,” she remarked. She also highlighted how rewarding it was to engage in discussions with renowned trade and agricultural experts, as well as meet other competition winners.
In addition to receiving the cash prize of USD 2,000, Muhammad had the opportunity to present her essay “Campaign Promises” at the ALF gala dinner. Reflecting on the impact of competition. She said, “Young Africans, in my view, have enormous potential for the continent’s growth. We are the largest bloc on the continent, and it is time that we draw attention to that fact. The UONGOZI competition is an invitation to the table and a chance to show what we have to offer. We should not take it for granted.” She considered essay writing as an effective approach to strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills. “So, whether you win or lose, you gain something,” she added.
Muhammad offered advice to all young Africans interested in participating in the contest:
“Follow the fundamentals, from the grammar rules to the writing style. The aim should be to help the reader follow your argument. You also need to be thorough in your research and editing. Take time to check the facts, carefully read your work and ask someone else to proofread your final draft before sending it in.”
Muhammad is a law graduate who aspires to pursue a career in international development. She is passionate about sustainable development in Africa and enjoys writing and reading about the interplay between economic forces, human rights, and development.
