UNAFRI and Afro-Arab Youth Council Sign Landmark MoU to Strengthen Collaboration in Crime Prevention and Youth Empowerment

On April 8, 2026, the United Nations African Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders hosted the Afro-Arab Youth Council at its Secretariat in Naguru for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a new chapter in institutional cooperation and collaboration between the two organisations.

The MoU establishes a framework for joint action in key areas including crime prevention, youth empowerment, research, and international cooperation across Africa and the Arab region.

Speaking at the ceremony, UNAFRI Acting Director General, Mr. Andrew Munanura, highlighted the Institute’s role as Africa’s only United Nations body hosted by Uganda dedicated to crime prevention and criminal justice, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in addressing emerging threats such as cybercrime and strengthening capacity across justice systems.

The AAYC delegation was led by H.E. Dr. Abdulhadi Lahweej, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Libyan Government and President of AAYC, accompanied by Hon. Dr. Abbas Agaba, AAYC Secretary General and Ms. Amina Hilmi, Deputy Secretary General, AAYC.

In their remarks, AAYC leadership underscored the central role of youth in addressing crime and promoting peace, noting that the partnership provides a platform for joint initiatives in research, training, and youth engagement.

The discussions highlighted the need for collaborative responses to evolving challenges, including cybercrime, human trafficking, violent extremism, and the vulnerability of youth in conflict and displacement settings.

Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to translating the MOU into practical, results-driven initiatives through joint programmes, research, and capacity-building efforts.

The signing ceremony concluded with an exchange of tokens of appreciation, symbolizing mutual commitment and a shared vision for impactful collaboration.