The African Union (AU) has officially opened applications for the 4th Cohort of the African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP), a prestigious initiative empowering young leaders to drive peace and security across the continent. The deadline for submissions is 15 December 2025.
Overview of the AYAP Program
The AYAP initiative was established to strengthen youth participation in peace and security under the AU’s Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) agenda. Launched through the Youth for Peace Africa Program (Y4P), the fellowship aims to ensure that young Africans meaningfully contribute to preventing violence, promoting peace, and shaping policy across the continent.
Each cohort consists of five regional ambassadors, selected from Africa’s regions to advocate, engage communities, and support AU-led peacebuilding efforts. AYAPs work directly under the AU’s Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department (PAPS) and collaborate with the AU Youth Envoy.
Since the first appointment in 2020, the AYAP program has continued to inspire youth-led action by promoting the priorities outlined in the Continental Framework on Youth, Peace and Security (CFYPS) and the UN Security Council Resolutions 2250, 2419, and 2535.
Eligibility Criteria
The application is open to young Africans with a strong passion for peacebuilding. Candidates must:
- Be 18–35 years old throughout their two-year tenure.
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree and have 2+ years of experience in peace and security.
- Demonstrate proven involvement in community peace initiatives, mediation, or youth advocacy.
- Possess strong communication skills and the ability to mobilize stakeholders.
- Be fluent in at least one AU working language (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Swahili, or Spanish).
- Have a record of meaningful contributions in their local community.
Applications from young women, displaced persons, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged.
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Roles and Responsibilities of AYAPs
Selected ambassadors will champion youth participation in peace and security through the following missions:
1. Participation
Promote youth involvement at all levels of decision-making, policymaking, and peace processes.
2. Prevention
Support peace education, violence-prevention initiatives, and youth empowerment programs to reduce vulnerabilities to extremism.
3. Protection
Advocate for adherence to humanitarian and human rights laws to ensure the safety and rights of young people in conflict zones.
4. Partnerships and Coordination
Strengthen collaboration between youth, governments, civil society, and regional organizations to advance peace efforts.
5. Disengagement and Rehabilitation
Support programs that reintegrate youth affected by conflict, including returnees, displaced persons, and those disengaging from armed groups.
AYAPs also represent the AU at workshops, meetings, and regional activities supporting the implementation of the CFYPS.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their applications before 23:59 EAT on 15 December 2025 through the official portal.
Applications must include:
- A current CV or resume
- A short essay (max 2 pages) explaining their qualifications and proposed contribution to peace in Africa
- Copies of academic and professional certificates
The AYAP program offers a unique opportunity for passionate young Africans to shape the future of peace and security in their regions. Successful applicants will join a strong network of youth leaders dedicated to building a peaceful and resilient continent.
For more information, visit the African Youth Ambassadors for Peace (AYAP).
