From 2 to 5 October, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth, Ahmad Alhendawi, is on an official mission to South Africa, where he is attending the One Young World Summit, and conducting a series of meetings with various UN entities and governments institutions.

In a meeting today with the South African UN Country Team, it was agreed that the country will be one of 15 countries to pilot youth groups to advise UN Country Teams. Announced by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on 5 August, the advisory groups will serve as a structured mechanism for youth participation in the UN’s work with and for young people.

Ahmad Alhendawi with the UN Country Team in South Africa

Ahmad Alhendawi with Youth Focal Points

Alhendawi also met with the UN Communications Groups and UN focal points on youth to discuss how the parties can strengthen collaboration and coherence to promote youth development.

Ahmad Alhendawi with the UN Country Team and Youth Focal Points

Ahmad Alhendawi with the UN Communications Group-South Africa

During his stay in South Africa, the Envoy will meet with the Director of the National Youth Development Agency, as well Dr. Sheila Tlou, UNAID Regional Support Team Director and UNAIDS Youth Officer in East and Southern Africa. He will also meet with young people from marginalized areas, young people living with HIV, and visit the SOS village.

On Saturday, Alhendawi is set to address the participants of the One Young World Summit 2013 during the closing ceremony of the event.