MONROVIA – In a bold effort to enhance youth participation in economic policy and deepen public awareness of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Youth Arise 4 Development (YA4D) and Africa’s Future Economic Leaders (AFEL) have officially launched the Economic Impact Challenge (EIC) in Liberia.
This transformative initiative aims to empower over 60 economics students across Liberian universities through a rigorous journey of research, policy analysis, and targeted advocacy around key economic policies within Africa. Framed within the context of the AfCFTA, the Challenge is both educational and action-driven, designed to raise a new generation of economic thinkers and reform advocates.
“We believe youth are not just the future of Africa’s economy, they are the present architects of the continent’s transformation. This challenge gives them the platform to think critically, research deeply, and advocate meaningfully.”
Jutomue Doetein, Executive Director, YA4D
Liberia signed the AfCFTA on March 21, 2018, and ratified it in July 2023, becoming the 48th state party. Yet, awareness and engagement with this landmark agreement remain limited, particularly among young people. The EIC seeks to bridge this gap by equipping students with the tools, mentorship, and platforms needed to explore how AfCFTA can facilitate both national and continental transformation.
To drive grassroots participation, seven (7) campus ambassadors have been appointed from universities across Liberia. These ambassadors have been oriented and equipped with detailed timelines, engagement tools, and advocacy resources. They are now mobilizing student-teams within their respective institutions to participate in the Challenge.
Each team will engage in month-long exercises in economic research, dialogue, and policy advocacy, culminating in the presentation of proposals with real-world relevance. Winning submissions will be recognized nationally and may inform future policy conversations.
“This isn’t just a competition, it is the beginning of a movement. We’re building a generation of informed, proactive youth leaders. Our goal is to promote dialogue, foster innovation, and ultimately drive actions that support economic growth and AfCFTA implementation in Liberia and across the continent.”
Oluwatosin Wilde Programs Manager, AFEL
Over the next three to four months, AFEL and YA4D will lead coordinated outreach, provide mentorship support, and facilitate a national showcase. There, student teams will present their findings and recommendations to a panel of experts, policymakers, and development partners.
This initiative supports Liberia’s development goals and aligns with broader efforts to ensure that young people are fully included in the economic transformation of the continent.
