African Union Calls for Applications: 4th Cohort of African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP) – Apply Now

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Application Deadline: 15 December 2025

The African Union (AU) has officially opened applications for the 4th Cohort of African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP)—a prestigious opportunity for passionate African youth committed to advancing peace, security, and stability across the continent.

Launched in 2018 under the Youth for Peace (Africa) Program (Y4P), the initiative empowers young leaders to meaningfully contribute to peacebuilding and conflict prevention efforts. The program supports the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) Agenda, guided by the African Union Youth Charter (2006) and UN Security Council Resolutions 2250, 2419, and 2535.

About the African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP)

The AYAP initiative is a flagship youth engagement program under the Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department (PAPS) of the African Union Commission. It was established following the AU Peace and Security Council’s (PSC) recommendation to appoint five regional youth ambassadors representing North, West, East, Central, and Southern Africa.

These Ambassadors work closely with the AU Youth Envoy to champion youth inclusion in peace and security initiatives. Over the years, three cohorts of AYAPs have been appointed and endorsed by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, demonstrating AU’s continued commitment to empowering young peacebuilders.

Each AYAP serves a two-year non-renewable term, advocating for youth participation, protection, and partnership in peace processes while amplifying young Africans’ voices at national, regional, and continental levels.

Mission and Core Priorities

The AYAPs play a crucial role in promoting and implementing the Continental Framework on Youth, Peace and Security (CFYPS) and its 10-Year Implementation Plan. Their mission aligns with five strategic priorities:

  1. Participation: Encourage active youth involvement in policymaking, peacebuilding, and governance processes.
  2. Prevention: Strengthen youth capacity in conflict prevention, peace education, and mediation initiatives.
  3. Protection: Advocate for the safety and rights of young people during conflicts, especially against exploitation and gender-based violence.
  4. Partnerships and Coordination: Foster collaboration between youth-led organizations, governments, and development partners to enhance peace efforts.
  5. Disengagement and Rehabilitation: Support programs that reintegrate youth affected by armed conflict and promote post-war recovery and development.

By embodying these priorities, AYAPs become regional champions for peace, demonstrating how African youth can lead transformative change.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

The AYAP 4th Cohort welcomes applications from African youth aged 18 to 35 who have demonstrated commitment to promoting peace, justice, and stability within their communities.

Applicants must:

  • Be citizens of an AU Member State aged between 18 and 35 throughout the tenure;
  • Hold at least a bachelor’s degree;
  • Have a minimum of two years’ experience in peace and security, conflict prevention, mediation, or advocacy;
  • Demonstrate strong community engagement and leadership in peacebuilding;
  • Possess excellent communication and advocacy skills;
  • Be fluent in at least one AU working language (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Swahili, or Spanish).

The AU particularly encourages applications from young women, persons with disabilities, and displaced youth, reflecting its inclusive approach to leadership and representation.

Roles and Responsibilities of AYAPs

Once selected, the African Youth Ambassadors for Peace will:

  • Advocate for youth participation in decision-making and peace processes;
  • Support AU Member States in developing National Action Plans for youth, peace, and security;
  • Implement regional programs aligned with the CFYPS framework;
  • Represent the AU in peace and security meetings, workshops, and capacity-building events;
  • Mobilize and inspire young Africans to engage in peace and development efforts.

Through these roles, AYAPs act as key intermediaries between African youth, governments, and international partners working toward sustainable peace.

How to Apply

Qualified applicants are invited to submit their applications by 15 December 2025 (23:59 EAT) using the online form below:

Required documents include:

  • An updated CV/resume
  • A short essay (max 2 pages) explaining your qualifications and potential impact on peace in Africa
  • Copies of educational and training certificates

Why You Should Apply

Becoming an African Youth Ambassador for Peace offers a unique platform to represent your region at the highest levels of African diplomacy. Ambassadors gain direct exposure to AU policymaking processes, build powerful networks, and contribute to shaping youth-centered peace strategies.

If you’re a young African changemaker passionate about creating a peaceful and prosperous continent, this is your opportunity to lead, inspire, and transform your community through action.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE 

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