Africa’s young leaders gather in Benoni for 2nd Africa Scout Moot

More than 2 500 Rover Scouts from over 40 countries gathered at Arrowe Park in Benoni for the opening of the 2nd Africa Scout Moot on August 1.

Hosted by Scouts South Africa under the theme ‘Phezulu Nangaphezulu’ (Higher and Higher), the week-long event aims to equip young people with leadership skills, encourage cultural exchange and inspire community service.

World Scouting Africa Regional Director Dr Frederic Kama-Kama said the Moot comes at an important time as communities continue to face challenges such as inequality, unemployment and climate change.

“When I look at you, I do not see a generation that should be afraid. I see a generation that is creative, connected, courageous and ready to act.”

Speaking to the Benoni City Times, Kama-Kama encouraged parents to allow their children to join Scouting, saying the movement teaches valuable life skills through practical experience.

“As a parent myself, I have seen my own children gain skills through Scouting that they could not have learned elsewhere,” he said.

He explained that the Scout method of “learning by doing” helps young people develop leadership, teamwork and confidence while preparing them to serve their communities.

“We want young people to go higher and ask themselves how they can use Scouting to uplift their communities,” Kama-Kama said.

He added that Scouting offers programmes for different age groups, including Cubs, Scouts and Rovers, with the Rover programme catering for young adults between the ages of 18 and 26.

Scouts SA Chief Scout Khonzaphi Mdaka welcomed delegates to South Africa, saying the event is an opportunity for young people from different countries to build friendships and learn from one another.

Africa Scout Committee vice-chairperson Leonilde Lima reminded delegates that Africa needs young leaders now.

“Society may continue to call you the leaders of tomorrow, but Africa cannot afford to wait for tomorrow. You are leaders today.”

Among the delegates is Eastern Cape Rover Scout Kieran White, who said he joined Scouting after a friend invited him to attend a meeting.

“My friend invited me one day, since we couldn’t hang out on Fridays anymore because he had Cubs, so I just tagged along and I’ve been involved ever since,” he said.

White said Scouting has introduced him to people from different backgrounds while helping him grow as a leader.

The second Africa Scout Moot follows the inaugural event held in Nairobi, Kenya, and continues throughout the week with leadership workshops, cultural activities and community engagement programmes aimed at empowering young people across Africa.

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