Addis ababa: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on young Malaysians and Africans to intentionally shed the ‘colonial mentality’ and imperialist influences to build a just and progressive future on their own terms. He emphasized the necessity for societies that have gained independence to shape their own destinies, urging young individuals to actively participate in the reconstruction of their countries and economies.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted the importance of youth involvement during his lecture titled ‘Bridging Civilisations, Building Futures: Strengthening Afro-Malaysia Partnership for Shared Prosperity’ in Ethiopia. He pointed out that despite decades since the end of colonial rule, many societies still bear the psychological and cultural remnants of subjugation. Anwar stressed that this colonial mindset often results in independent countries behaving like colonial masters.

He addressed a predominantly young Ethiopian audience, urging them to not only fight against physical colonialism but also to free themselves from a slavish mindset and attitude. He warned that nations risk straying from values of justice and freedom if they fail to break away from this mentality. Anwar asserted that for Asia and Africa to forge a better future, their youth must be confident enough to abandon the mindset that previously kept them subdued.

The lecture was attended by notable figures including Ethiopia’s Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Ergoge Tesfaye, and other dignitaries. The Afro-Malaysia Youth Forum, co-organized by various youth councils, attracted 250 participants, focusing on youth partnership for shared prosperity. Ergoge emphasized the need for systems, access, and equality in youth development, expressing interest in collaborating with Malaysia for initiatives like exchange programs and innovation hubs.

Africa’s youth population is expected to double by 2050, with a significant increase in the continent’s working-age population, which will become a major contributor to the global workforce, as reported by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation (OECD).

Anwar’s visit to Ethiopia is part of his Africa tour, which includes stops in South Africa and Kenya, marking the first such visit by a Malaysian Prime Minister to the region. His itinerary includes attending the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg and concluding his visit in Nairobi.