:The chapters in this monograph speak to the delicate challenges that face African
countries when it comes to the dynamic of youth. The United Nations General
Assembly defines youth as those persons between the ages of 15 and 24 years. The
African Youth Charter defines youth as individuals aged 15 to 35 years, and this
can be explained by the longer time it takes for people to become economically
independent on the African continent. It is important to note here that whilst it might
be easy to classify youth in one group and they are often referred to in this manner,
youth are not a homogenous group. The chapters in this monograph examine the dynamics of the youth population on the basis of underlying relationships and social structures. The chapters seek to interrogate whether conflict and subsequent post-conflict societies enable new opportunities to change structures, so as to effect constructive change that enhances both the participation and survival of youth – and which will consequently contribute
to enhancing their place as a constituency of peace. The chapter contributions also
aim to contribute to works on preventative action. The presumption here is that in
instances of violent conflict, youth are often assimilated as instruments of war.”
