P Series 15 | Ambassador Michelle Gavin - How Urban Youth Are Changing Africa

Africa is entering a period of profound political transformation. With the world’s youngest population, rapid urbanization, and unprecedented digital connectivity, the continent is poised for increased political volatility, experimentation, and change. In this timely conversation, Ambassador Michelle D. Gavin — Senior Fellow for Africa at the Council on Foreign Relations and former U.S. Ambassador to Botswana — explores how Africa’s demographic surge is reshaping politics across the continent. She examines why traditional political systems are losing legitimacy, why leadership transitions are becoming more frequent, and how young Africans are driving new forms of political engagement. Drawing on decades of experience in diplomacy and policy, Ambassador Gavin discusses what this shift means for democracy, governance, and global competition, and why major powers like the United States, China, and Russia will need to rethink how they engage with Africa’s rising generation. About the Speaker Ambassador Michelle D. Gavin is Senior Fellow for Africa at the Council on Foreign Relations. She previously served as U.S. Ambassador to Botswana, senior director for Africa at the National Security Council, and managing director of The Africa Center. She played a key role in launching the Young African Leaders Initiative and shaping U.S. policy toward Africa.