Emmanuel Ombana Urges Gabonese Youth to Seize Opportunities for Change
January 1,2025
In a recent interview,Emmanuel Ombana,a prominent youth advocate in Gabon,emphasized the critical role of young people in shaping the nation’s future following President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema‘s inspiring address.Highlighting the creation of 163,000 jobs and the importance of youth engagement in the upcoming 2025 elections, Ombana called for active participation in key sectors such as agriculture, digital technology, and renewable energy. He urged the youth to transform challenges into opportunities and to take ownership of the reforms necessary for a prosperous Gabon, reinforcing that hope and change lie in their hands.
Interview with Emmanuel Ombana: Seizing Opportunities for Gabonese Youth
Time.news Editor (TNE): Emmanuel, thank you for joining us today to discuss the imperative role of Gabonese youth in shaping the future of their nation. After President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema’s recent address, you highlighted the creation of 163,000 jobs. Can you elaborate on how these developments impact the youth?
Emmanuel Ombana (EO): Thank you for having me. The creation of 163,000 jobs is not just a statistic; it’s a call to action for our youth. These opportunities span various sectors, especially agriculture, digital technology, and renewable energy, areas where our young people can bring innovation and sustainability. By participating in these fields, they can secure their futures and contribute to the country’s development.
TNE: You mentioned the importance of youth engagement in the upcoming 2025 elections. Why do you beleive this engagement is crucial?
EO: The 2025 elections are a pivotal moment for Gabon. Young people represent a significant portion of the electorate, and their voices must be heard. Engaging in the electoral process allows them to influence policies that directly affect their lives—especially those related to job creation and education. When youth mobilize, they not only advocate for their needs but also play an essential role in holding leaders accountable.
TNE: You encourage youth to transform challenges into opportunities. What practical steps can they take to do this?
EO: First, I encourage them to pursue skills development through available programs, like the Youth Opportunities Global Ambassador Program, which empowers young leaders globally [[1]]. Moreover, initiatives like the Namakwa Digital Hub offer tailored support for those interested in developing artisanal enterprises [[2]]. Embracing education and training can equip them with the tools necessary to navigate challenges in their communities and industries.
TNE: How can collaboration with international organizations and scholarships benefit Gabonese youth?
EO: collaborations open doors for funding, training workshops, and exposure to global best practices. For instance, numerous scholarships available for Gabonese youth can significantly reduce barriers to education—both domestically and abroad [[3]]. This access not only expands their knowledge base but also builds a network of peers who share similar goals of empowerment and reform.
TNE: What message do you want to impart to the Gabonese youth regarding their role in the nation’s future?
EO: My message is simple: take ownership. Hope and change truly lie in your hands. Don’t wait for others to make decisions for you—get involved, voice your opinions, and push for the reforms you seek. The opportunities to contribute to Gabon’s prosperity are at your fingertips. Engage in your communities,advocate for necessary changes,and let’s work together towards a brighter future for our nation.
TNE: Thank you, Emmanuel, for sharing your insights and inspiring our readers to take active roles in shaping their futures.
EO: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we continue these conversations, as they might just ignite the change we want to see.