Diplomatic and Military Affairs
Michelle Obama to African youth: Show leadership
Updated: 2011-06-23 09:30
(Agencies)
JOHANNESBURG - Michelle Obama says leadership isn't limited to age or status in life and that the world is looking to its young people to be the next generation of problem-solvers.
The US first lady delivered that message Wednesday in Johannesburg, South Africa, during a keynote speech to an American-sponsored forum of young women leaders from the continent.
Sixty percent of Africa's population is under age 25. And in South Africa, two-thirds of its people are younger than 30.
Mrs. Obama urged her listeners to be the ones who banish hunger and end HIV/AIDS.
She spoke at the Regina Mundi Church in Soweto township, which was a religious hub and sanctuary during the anti-apartheid uprisings 35 years ago.
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