UNIVERSITY OF DAR ES SALAAM TOWN HALL MARKS A STIRRING CALL TO REIGNITE THE AFRICAN RENAISSANCE

Simon Shayo, an alumnus of the University of Dar es Salaam and Vice President of Sustainability (Africa) at AngloGold Ashanti, delivered a speech on supporting Africa’s development during a Town Hall organized by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation at the historic Nkrumah Hall. The event was part of a series of activities leading up to the 15th Africa Day Lecture.

Dar es Salaam, 21 May 2025 – As part of the week-long lead-up to the 15th Africa Day Lecture, the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) played host to a stirring and thought-provoking Town Hall convened at the historic Nkrumah Hall. Organized by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation in collaboration with AngloGold Ashanti, the event was themed “Reigniting the African Renaissance” and served as a rallying call for renewed continental consciousness, reform, and leadership.

The Town Hall brought together distinguished leaders and voices from across the continent, including:

• H.E. Thabo Mbeki, Former President of South Africa
• H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, Former President of Tanzania
• Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, Member of the South African National Assembly
• Mr. Simon Shayo, UDSM alumnus and Vice President of Sustainability (Africa) at AngloGold Ashanti

Youth Voices Take Center Stage

One of the most powerful aspects of the Town Hall was the active participation of UDSM students, who presented candid and compelling reflections on youth empowerment. They called for inclusive, participatory strategies to tackle their pressing challenges, emphasizing the need for structural — not superficial — transformation. Their contributions echoed the day’s core message: Africa’s future lies in the rekindling of self-belief, civic engagement, and purposeful leadership.

Mbeki: “Are Our Youth Aware of Africa’s Vision?”

President Thabo Mbeki delivered a piercing critique of the disconnect between continental policies and their practical impact. He questioned the visibility of critical frameworks on youth development, citing the AU’s ECOSOCC as a body that remains inactive in countries like Tanzania. His remarks challenged African political leaders to revive the spirit of responsibility and self-sacrifice that once defined the liberation struggles of the continent. He also paid tribute to UDSM's intellectual legacy and its significant role in shaping post-independence ideologies across Africa.

Kikwete: “The Flame Has Been Reignited”

Former President Jakaya Kikwete lauded the efforts of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, stating that Africa can no longer afford to stand on the sidelines of global progress. He urged African leaders and institutions to commit to deep, transformative reform rather than mere cosmetic changes. According to Kikwete, the African Renaissance is not just a dream — it is a movement whose time has come.

Voices from the South: Ndlozi and Shayo

Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi emphasized the importance of continental consciousness and the role of African citizens in driving change. Simon Shayo, reflecting on Africa’s place in global development, warned against the self-undermining narrative that often compares Africa unfavorably to other advancing regions. Both speakers stressed the urgency of investing in Africa’s intellectual, cultural, and leadership capital.

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Looking Ahead

This Town Hall marks one of several key engagements in the build-up to the Africa Day Lecture, with upcoming highlights including:

📌 High-Level Roundtable with President Mbeki – Friday, 23 May
📌 Africa Day Lecture at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre – Saturday, 24 May

As the continent reflects on its achievements and challenges, the message from UDSM is clear: Africa’s Renaissance is a collective journey that demands courage, clarity, and commitment.