Call for Chairs and Delegates for Model African Union (MAU) Japan 2026
Ubuntu: Youth Co-Creating Shared Futures Through Human Coexistence
The Model African Union (MAU) Japan 2026 will take place on 16–17 May 2026 in Tokyo, alongside Africa Weeks at Sophia University, one of Japan’s largest Africa Day commemorations. Jointly organized by UNDP, JICA, and Sophia University, MAU Japan is a flagship youth diplomatic simulation platform that brings together students from Africa and Japan to engage in structured dialogue aligned with African Union processes and Tokyo International Conference on Africa Development (TICAD) priorities. Through the simulation of the AU decision-making process, participants gain practical experience in multilateral diplomacy, negotiation, and policy formulation.
Now in its third cohort, MAU Japan continues to grow as a leading Africa–Japan youth initiative. The inaugural edition was launched in 2024 during the TICAD Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo under the theme “Youth Solutions for a Greener Africa,” marking Japan’s first Model African Union General Assembly. The second edition, held in 2025 as a thematic event of TICAD 9 in Yokohama, adopted the theme “Inayojumuisha” (Inclusion), emphasizing youth co-creation and collaborative leadership. The 2026 edition builds on these foundations and TICAD 9 outcomes to further deepen youth-driven policy engagement. Across its editions, MAU has strengthened Africa–Japan people-to-people cooperation while advancing youth participation in continental policy dialogue.
The MAU 2026 theme is Ubuntu – “I Am Because We Are”
Ubuntu, a foundational African philosophy, affirms dignity, solidarity, and interdependence. It was championed globally by Nelson Mandela, whose leadership demonstrated that sustainable progress is rooted in shared humanity and reconciliation. In a century marked by democratic fragility, economic inequality, technological disruption, and shifting geopolitical dynamics, Ubuntu provides both ethical guidance and policy relevance. The theme aligns directly with the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want, which envisions inclusive growth, democratic governance, peace and security, and people-driven development that harnesses the full potential of youth.
MAU Japan 2026 positions youth not merely as participants in dialogue, but as co-architects of governance systems, economic integration, and innovation ecosystems shaping Africa’s future.
Simulation Structure
The MAU 2026 conference simulates three African Union Specialized Technical Committees (STCs), grounded in continental frameworks and strategies:
Public Service, Governance & Peace: Aligned with Agenda 2063, the African Youth Charter, and the AU Continental Framework on Youth, Peace and Security, this committee explores youth-led governance reform, peacebuilding, social cohesion, and digital accountability. Delegates will develop solution-oriented approaches that strengthen civic trust and institutional legitimacy.Finance, Economic Planning & Integration: Grounded in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), this committee examines entrepreneurship, regional value chains, trade integration, and digital economic transformation. Economic integration is framed as a shared continental project driven by youth-led innovation and cooperative development.Education, Science & Technology Innovation: This committee addresses youth leadership in digital and AI governance, STEM development, and ethical, inclusive technological transformation for sustainable development.
Who Can Apply?
High school and university students from Africa and Japan currently based in JapanStudents interested in governance, economic integration, innovation, and Africa’s development
As a Delegate, You Will:
Represent an African Union Member StateParticipate in structured multilateral negotiationsDraft and debate policy resolutions aligned with AU frameworksEngage with peers, diplomats, and institutional partnersReceive a Certificate of Participation upon successful completion
Applications are also open for Committee Chairs, who will guide deliberations and shape policy outcomes.
Application Deadline: Wednesday, 18 March 2026, 23:59 (JST)
👉Apply here: https://forms.gle/R6jKcBe9511c9i7p7