19th Africa Scout Conference opens in Madagascar under theme Living Together for Peace
The 19th Africa Scout Conference opened on the 18th of September at the International Conference Centre of Ivato (CCI Ivato), bringing together over 200 delegates from more than 40 countries to shape the future of Scouting in Africa. Held every three years, the conference is the highest governing body of Scouting in the region. This year’s gathering runs under the theme “Living Together for Peace,” focusing on youth leadership, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.
The opening ceremony of the conference took place at the CCI Ivato, the conference venue and was graced by the Honorable Abdulah Marson Moustapha, Minister of Youth and Sports, and Her Excellency Harilala Ramanantsoa, Mayor of Antananarivo. In his address, Hon. Abdulah emphasised the transformative role of Scouting in fostering unity and nurturing young leaders for Africa’s future. Reflecting on the conference theme, he stated, “Peace is not a luxury but a necessity for the development of Africa.”
The ceremony was also attended by the Secretary General of the World Organization of the Scout Movement, Mr. David Berg; World Scout Committee Vice-Chairperson, Mr Mori Cheng; Africa Scout Committee Chairperson, Mr. Maina Kiranga; Africa Regional Director, Mr. Frederic Kama-Kama; along with representatives from UN agencies , guests and other partners.
The conference takes place at a pivotal moment, with Scouting in Africa experiencing unprecedented growth, from 4 million members in 2021 to more than 9 million today. Over the next four days, delegates will chart the movement’s future by adopting the Regional Scout Plan 2025–2028, electing 4 new members to the Africa Scout Committee, adopt resolutions that shape the future of Scouting in Africa and vote on hosts for upcoming regional events, including the 20th Africa Scout Conference and 11th Youth Forum, the 3rd Africa Scout Moot, and the 10th Africa Scout Jamboree. The conference decisions will integrate resolutions from the recently concluded Africa Youth Forum, ensuring the voices of young people remain central to decision-making.
Beyond formal sessions, the conference provides opportunities for networking, exchanging best practices, and strengthening partnerships. Key conversations will focus on peace, inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and innovative youth engagement, reflecting the global vision of World Scouting.
Media contact:
Benson Makusha
Coordinator, Communications and Marketing – World Scout Bureau Africa Support Centre
benson.makusha@scout.org
About the Africa Scout Region:
The Africa Scout Region, part of the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM), supports 42 National Scout Organizations across Africa to deliver high-quality, youth-led education and development programmes to more than 9 million Scouts.