Chido Cleopatra Mpemba is a dynamic force in African diplomacy, currently serving as the youngest senior official and diplomat in the Cabinet of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission. Representing over 870 million youth across Africa’s 55 member states, she is a powerful advocate for youth inclusion in policy, climate action, technology, and governance.
At just 30, Chido has carved out a reputation as a visionary leader shaping the future of Africa’s youth. In her AU role, she leads youth engagement and policy advocacy, partnering with governments, multilaterals, academic institutions, and the private sector to ensure youth and young women are at the center of Africa’s socioeconomic and environmental development. Her diplomatic influence has extended globally, having advised governments such as Germany, Austria, and Norway on youth policy and Africa relations.
Chido is also a skilled moderator and speaker, regularly appearing at high-level global forums. She has moderated flagship events for the United Nations, including sessions with the President of the UN General Assembly and the Deputy Secretary-General. Her thought leadership has been featured across leading institutions such as the World Economic Forum, Harvard University, World Bank, Google, and the United Nations.
As a digital inclusion champion, Chido launched the “Make Africa Digital” (M.A.D) campaign, which has already trained over 4,000 youth across six African countries in digital literacy. Her work promotes not only digital skills but also economic opportunity and resilience in underserved communities.
Chido is equally committed to climate action. Through her fruit tree-planting initiative, she has distributed and planted over 1,000 trees, educating youth on sustainability, food security, and environmental stewardship. Her previous experience in regulatory and risk management in the private sector gives her a unique edge in cross-sectoral policy formulation.
Her influence reaches across continents. She holds numerous leadership and advisory roles, including:
- Member, European Union Advisory Committee for the Global Gateway Africa Migration Initiative
- Member, UNICEF Generation Unlimited Global Leadership Council
- Member, G20 African Union Youth Engagement Group
- Commissioner, Climate Governance Commission chaired by Mary Robinson
- Co-Chair, WHO Commission on Social Connection alongside Dr. Vivek Murthy
- Former Board Trustee, Old Mutual Youth Fund
Recognized by global media, Chido has been featured in META’s “Africa’s Rising Stars” and the BBC’s “Focus on Africa.” She has participated in high-level environmental leadership programs and is regarded as one of Africa’s most influential young leaders bridging diplomacy, development, and digital transformation.
Chido Mpemba continues to elevate African youth voices on the world stage fostering innovation, climate action, and governance reforms, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer shaping Africa’s future.
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