NDI has supported the African Union’s (AU) efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and encourage youth political participation since 2013. The African Union Commission’s Department of Political Affairs’ (DPA) African Governance Architecture (AGA) -- the regional, political and institutional framework for the promotion, protection and sustenance of democracy, governance, human rights and humanitarian assistance -- partnered with NDI to create and provide opportunities to engage young leaders in ongoing regional dialogues on democracy, elections and governance. In Africa, approximately 60 percent of the population is under the age of 35, including 35 percent between the ages of 15 and 35. Youth inclusion is vital to materializing and maintaining democratic governance. When young people have opportunities to participate in political processes there is a vigor, an energy, a burst of inspiration that transcends generations and brings innovative, new approaches. NDI and the AU have worked together to provide a space where youth can engage and exchange their views freely.