Rovers gather in South Africa for the 2nd Africa Scout Moot
Young people from more than 40 countries in Africa and beyond have gathered at Arrowe Park in South Africa for the second Africa Scout Moot.
Hosted by SCOUTS South Africa, the event gives Rover Scouts a week to exchange cultures, explore Johannesburg, develop practical skills, and build partnerships that can strengthen communities across Africa and beyond.
The opening ceremony on 1 August brought the spirit of Scouting to life through a flag parade, performances by local young people, and messages of unity, service, and action. Welcoming participants, SCOUTS South Africa Chief Scout Khonzaphi Mdaka reminded Rovers that leadership is not limited to a title or a future role. Young people are already shaping communities, businesses and governments.
Africa Scout Committee Vice-Chairperson Leonilde Lima reinforced this message in her address. Society may continue to call you the leaders of tomorrow, but Africa cannot afford to wait for tomorrow. You are leaders today, Leonilde said.
She encouraged Rovers to champion values-based leadership in their communities and chosen fields of work. She also urged them to take their place in important policy discussions, including those related to the African Youth Charter, which is currently under review, so that young people’s voices help shape decisions across the continent.
The WOSM Africa Regional Director, Dr Frédéric Tutu Kama-Kama, challenged participants to live the Moot theme, Phezulu Nangaphezulu, meaning Higher and Higher. He encouraged Rovers to aim higher in their ambitions, service, leadership, and the standards they set for themselves. He also called on them to turn the ideas they will learn from the moot into projects that advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
Throughout the week, international teams will explore the communities, cultures, and natural spaces of the greater Johannesburg area. Participants will also join Scout skills and digital technology workshops, cultural celebrations, and community activities.
The message from the opening ceremony was clear: Africa’s future will be shaped by young people who act with courage, serve their communities, and work together across borders. Phezulu Nangaphezulu. Higher and Higher.
The programme activities have been made possible through the generous support of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in partnership with World Scouting, through the Messengers of Peace Fund.Young people from more than 40 countries have gathered at Arrowe Park, South Africa, for the second Africa Scout Moot.