Mr. Mohamed Mehdi Bensaïd, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, received the symbolic torch from his Congolese counterpart in a solemn and friendly atmosphere. This continental platform aims to promote dialogue around public policies related to youth and sports, while reinforcing the socio-economic empowerment of young people in the Francophone space.
The proceedings began this morning with the presence of ministers, high-level government officials, and experts from CONFEJES member states. Ms. Louisette-Renée Tobie, Secretary-General of the Conference, highlighted on this occasion, “four decades of commitment to youth empowerment and the promotion of sports as a lever for social cohesion, public health, and collective progress.”
In her opening speech, Ms. Tobie expressed her thanks to His Majesty King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan government, especially the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, for organizing this 40th edition, held from May 13 to 16 in Rabat. She recalled that the conference was preceded by an international symposium on “training for youth and leisure professions in the face of new political challenges and labor market demands,” followed by administrative and financial meetings, and expert groups on May 14 and 15.
The official ministerial session on Friday is dedicated to reviewing reports and draft resolutions, evaluating ongoing programs, and defining a strategic framework for future actions in the fields of youth and sports. Concrete recommendations are expected to be adopted to strengthen these two vital sectors in Francophone societies.
A Meaningful Presidency for Morocco
After receiving the presidency, Mr. Bensaïd expressed pride and gratitude for the trust placed in Morocco, emphasizing that “the honor of hosting this 40th edition of CONFEJES illustrates the Kingdom’s deep commitment to Francophone youth.” He noted that the event is held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
The minister stressed that this event occurs within a national context of strong reform momentum, driven by the insightful vision of the Sovereign, who places youth at the heart of public policy priorities. He recalled the royal speech of August 20, 2018, on the 65th anniversary of the King and People’s Revolution, in which King Mohammed VI reaffirmed the need to provide young people with the tools for their economic, social, and cultural development.
Global Challenges, Concrete Solutions
Mr. Bensaïd emphasized the importance of this conference in a rapidly changing world, where economic, social, environmental, and technological challenges require bold and collaborative responses. He advocated for the creation of an environment that fosters youth development by promoting equal opportunities, innovation, active participation, and the protection of fundamental rights.
“We have a moral and political responsibility to propose concrete, innovative, and inclusive solutions to the challenges faced by young people in the Francophone world,” he declared.
In this spirit, Morocco reaffirmed its commitment to working with all member countries to develop and implement ambitious policies, adapted to the realities and specificities of each nation.
The ministerial session’s proceedings continued behind closed doors on Friday afternoon, aiming to adopt recommendations and strategic decisions to empower youth and promote sports across the Francophone space — particularly through more effective, inclusive, and employment-oriented public policies.
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The Voice of the OIF
The International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) was also represented by Ms. Fatima Aouidate, head of the Youth and Civil Society Department. In a statement to the press, she emphasized that, “the OIF is participating in this conference to collectively reflect on the daily challenges faced by Francophone youth and to propose concrete solutions to their concerns, including employment access, the digital divide, and sustainable development.”
She concluded: “We are here with our partners to co-build a better future for Francophone youth by implementing projects tailored to the specific needs of each country.”