Scouts South Africa hosts 16th Africa Scout Day celebrations

Leaders from across the African continent, youth representatives, adult volunteers, and partners in youth development from government and civil society organisations gathered in Johannesburg today for the official opening ceremony of the 16th Africa Scout Day celebrations, hosted by Scouts South Africa.

Held at the auditorium of the National Youth Development Agency in Johannesburg, the ceremony marked the start of the commemoration of Africa Scout Day, observed each year on 13 March following its designation by the African Union in 1995. The event celebrates the role of Scouting in empowering young people and strengthening communities across Africa.

This year’s celebrations are held under the theme “Strong Roots, Bright Future,” highlighting the values that have guided Scouting for generations while recognising the role young people play as leaders and agents of positive change in their communities. For many years, Scouting in Africa has empowered young people to develop leadership, resilience, and essential life skills through engaging programs and practical, hands-on experiences that prepare them to contribute positively to their communities and society. 

Addressing the gathering, Mary Waweru, Deputy Regional Director for the World Scout Bureau, Africa, highlighted the continued growth of the Scout Movement in Africa, which now reaches over 10 million young people across 42 National Scout Organizations, making it one of the fastest-growing regions in the global Scout Movement.

She noted that this growth signifies the increasing relevance and impact of Scouting in shaping responsible citizens, strengthening communities, and empowering young people across the continent.

Also in attendance was Franck Ramanarivo, Chair of the Africa Scout Committee, alongside the leadership of the Southern Africa Scout Zone  In his address, Franck underscored Scouting’s commitment to placing young people at the centre of development, pointing to the outcomes of the 19th Africa Scout Conference in 2025, which strengthened youth participation in governance and decision-making at all levels of the Movement. 

Delivering the keynote address was behavioural science expert and business leader Dr Mzamo Masito, founder of NudgeLabs and Board Chair of South African Tourism. A former Scout, Dr Masito reflected on the role Scouting played in shaping his leadership journey and highlighted the importance of investing in young people as Africa’s greatest asset. Reflecting on his childhood, he shared:

He explained that many of the boys he grew up with later became involved in drugs and violence, while Scouting helped guide him onto a different path,  one that shaped his values, leadership, and future.

Africa Scout Day commemorates the adoption of a resolution by the Organisation of African Unity, now the African Union,  in 1995, recognising the contribution of the Scout Movement to youth development and nation building across the continent.

Following the opening ceremony, the celebrations continue from 13 to 15 March at Arrowe Park Scout Camp, where Scouts from across Africa will participate in cultural exchanges, skills activities and leadership programmes.