A new generation of water professionals and leaders: The Eastern Nile Young Professionals Program

Young people in Africa constitutes 226 million or 19% of the global youth population. By 2030, this number is set to increase by 42% in Africa. However, youth unemployment, coupled with low-quality jobs and inequalities in the labor market hinders their progress. Cooperation in International Waters in Africa (CIWA) program believes in the potential of the youth. CIWA recognizes the need to provide opportunities for honing their skills towards achieving sustainable, inclusive and equitable societies. Since 2011, nearly 180 young people have participated in the Eastern Nile Technical Regional Office (ENTRO) collaborating with other young and junior professionals to nurture a shared understanding of the Eastern Nile sub-Basin. The ENTRO participants share their experiences with passion about the internship program and how it has helped shape their future.