Africa is a continent of the young, with more than 60% of the total population below the age of 25. Any serious policy for social, political and economic development in Africa must recognize the importance of young people, especially in promoting social progress, reducing political tension and maximizing economic performance.

Unlike other continents, Africa's population is becoming more youthful, with youth as a proportion of the total population projected at over 75% by 2015, due to the high fertility rate underlying the demographic momentum. Currently, young people account for 45% of the total labour force in Africa; hence, the need for Africa's development efforts to reflect this demographic fact.

Young Africans will get a chance to pay tribute to Kofi Annan next week when he makes one of his last official trips to the continent as Secretary General of the United Nations.

Mr. Annan will deliver the keynote address at the fifth African Development Forum, due to take place in the UN Conference Centre in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from Thursday to Saturday, November 16-18.

He will meet young people from across Africa who are flying to Ethiopia to take part in the Forum, which this year is focused on the theme 'Youth and Leadership in the 21st Century'.

Other prominent Africans who are due to attend the Forum include Meles Zenawi, Prime Minister of Ethiopia; Professor Alpha Oumar Konare, Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union and Dr Donald Kaberuka, President of the African Development Bank.

Some of the continent's best-loved celebrities will also be in attendance, including South African rapper and actor Zola and the world-renowned singer and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Angelique Kidjo (from Benin).

Participants will take part in a wide range of debates and sessions on issues including 'Youth employment & migration', 'Youth entrepreneurship', 'Youth and Information Communication Technology' and 'Youth, Health and HIV/Aids'.

They will also get a chance to express themselves through 'Speak Africa' - a new and groundbreaking communications initiative running parallel to this year's Forum.

Speak Africa is a UNICEF-backed venture which encourages young Africans to discuss key issues through the internet, TV and other media. It has invited youngsters from across Africa to come and cover the Forum and participate in a range of other events from media workshops and film screenings to exhibitions.