AMECEA Panel Urges Youth to Build Dignified Futures at Home, Not Abroad
Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA
Entrepreneur and youth mentor Mr. Alex Nderito Wandia, during a panel discussion at the 21st Plenary Assembly of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) on Wednesday, July 22, pointed out that addressing migration begins by restoring the dignity of work within the continent of Africa itself.
“We need to dignify work,” he said.
Quoting the Benedictine tradition, he reminded participants that “to work is to pray,” emphasizing that honest labor should never be regarded as inferior simply because it does not promise immediate wealth.
He expressed concern that many young people are increasingly attracted by the illusion of an effortless “soft life,” often believing that prosperity lies only outside Africa.
“The soft life will come after you have worked,” he remarked. “You cannot live the life of a CEO without having to be the laborer.”
For Alex, changing this mindset requires helping young people appreciate both their identity and the opportunities that already exist within their own communities.
He lamented that Africa possesses abundant natural resources, fertile land, and immense human talent, yet many continue believing that fulfillment can only be found elsewhere.
“If we can give the youth a sense of identity and acceptance,” he said, “they would be able to bring these talents… within our borders.”
Rather than exporting Africa’s most talented young people, he encouraged institutions to create environments where they can contribute to the continent’s own development.
Alex also challenged the Church to strengthen its digital evangelization and formation efforts. Since many young people spend much of their lives online, he argued that the Church must increasingly accompany them within digital spaces.
“We need to take our evangelism online,” he urged.
He observed that many young Catholics remain unaware that the Church has already reflected on emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, technology, and ethical innovation through its social teaching.
From a pastoral perspective, Bishop Henry Juma acknowledged that migration remains a complex issue requiring compassion, accompaniment, and advocacy.
“The issue of migration is a complex issue,” he said. While encouraging young people to work diligently wherever opportunities arise, he recognized that many migrants experience exploitation, abuse, and trauma as they seek better lives away from home.
“The Church is always there,” he affirmed, explaining that dioceses and Church institutions continue offering counseling, pastoral care, and cross-border support to migrants throughout the region.
He also called for stronger policies and structures that protect migrants’ rights while preserving their dignity.
At the same time, Bishop Juma reminded participants that migration is not always driven by employment alone. Environmental challenges, drought, and conflict continue forcing many communities to relocate in search of survival.
These realities, he said, require governments, Church institutions, and regional organizations to work together in ensuring that migration becomes safer, more humane, and more respectful of every person’s dignity.
As the session came to a close, each panelist offered a final word of encouragement to the young people following the Assembly.
Ken Njoroge challenged young people to stop waiting for perfect conditions and instead start “where you are with what you have.”
Paul Russo reminded young people that every successful leader has a unique story and encouraged them to begin writing their own with courage and determination.
Alex Nderito invited young people to move beyond spectatorship and become active participants in the life and mission of the Church.
“Opportunity will not find you in the confines of your room,” he said. “You will have to go out there and push for that space.”
Chebet challenged young people to use their greatest assets (time, energy, and courage) to build something meaningful rather than merely criticizing society.
“It is easy to criticize outside,” she said. “Turn that criticism inward and ask yourself, ‘Am I doing my best? Am I building something?’”
Professor Bagire encouraged students to remain committed to education while cultivating the values that make them responsible citizens and trustworthy professionals.
Finally, Bishop Henry Juma concluded: “To our young people listening to us, we want to tell you that the Church loves you. Challenges will come in life. Difficulties will come in life. Do not lose hope. The Church is with you, to journey with you, to encourage you, and to pray for you.”
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