Kenyan Youth Voices Take Center Stage at World Youth Festival 2025 in Russia
participation in the WYF is not so much about representation; it is an opportunity to show their capability, learn from each other
, Sport, Culture, and Communications, Dmitry Chernyshenko, began with a vibrant ceremony that was filled with music, dance, Photo/ Courtesy.
By Juliet Jerotich
Kenyan youth are making their own mark at the 2025 World Youth Festival (WYF) in Russia’s Nizhny Novgorod, bringing together thousands of young leaders representing over 100 nations to talk technology, diplomacy, and international cooperation.
The festival, officially opened on Thursday evening by Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister for Tourism, Sport, Culture, and Communications, Dmitry Chernyshenko, began with a vibrant ceremony that was filled with music, dance, and cultural shows demonstrating unity in diversity. The event has drawn over 1,000 Russian youngsters, as well as another 1,000 delegates from the nations of Africa, Europe, Asia, North and Latin America.
On the fringe of the gathering, Amina Khubiyeva, Head of Delegation and Chief Adviser of the Department of International Cooperation with Asian and African Countries in the WYF Directorate, stressed the necessity of youth representation from Africa. She stated that the contribution of Africa to such international forums cannot be overlooked, appreciating the Kenyan delegation for their innovative and vision-driven effort.
We are lucky to have in total more than 100 countries, including very strong delegations from Asia and Africa. I had a chance earlier in the year to visit Kenya and meet different youth organizations, and I was truly impressed by Kenyan youth vision and creativity. Our intention is to ensure all the participants can benefit from the program that we have developed over the past months,” she added.
Among the Kenyan delegates is AfroGreen Movement chief executive Richard Kakung’a, who has attended the World Youth Festival for a fourth time. Kakung’a described the event as a “melting pot of cultures and new ideas” which, besides cementing international cooperation, strengthens people-to-people connections. For him, the festival is a robust platform whereby young minds exchange experience, experiment with new solutions, and create long-lasting world links.
For the youth of Kenya, participation in the WYF is not so much about representation; it is an opportunity to show their capability, learn from each other, and contribute to the setting of the global agenda. Their attendance is a reflection of Kenya’s growing position as a hub for African youthful dynamism and innovation.
Over the remainder of the festival, the Kenyan delegation will engage in discussions at the highest level on issues ranging from sustainable development and climate action to digital transformation and intercultural dialogue—positioning them among the most significant voices in global youth leadership.
About Author
