The event is supported by the United Nations system in the country. This year’s theme is "The Road to 2030: eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable consumption and production", highlighting the leading role of young people in the achievement of this goal.

The official ceremony took place this afternoon in the presence of senior national authorities, civil society representatives, international partners and UN agencies led by the Special Representative of the UN SG for Guinea-Bissau, Modibo Touré who delivered the message of the Secretary-General. This event witnessed the launching of a national mural painting contest on sustainable consumption and peace.

Before this afternoon’s event, the National Institute for Biodiversity (IBAP, Portuguese acronym) hosted a conference on the role of youth leadership in eradicating poverty and the scope of sustainable consumption and production. Was also discussed, the role of the youth in the “Guinea-Bissau 2025 Vision” and in attaining the recommended development objectives.

Early in the morning, a half Marathon race was organized in downtown with more than 100 young amateur athletes of both sexes.

In his message on the occasion of the International Youth Day, UN Secretary-General said  he was proud that the United Nations is actively engaged in supporting young leaders who can carry out the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Goal 12 on sustainable consumption and production patterns.

“I encourage all young people to become involved in advancing the SDGs and demanding action by their Governments. My Youth Envoy is eager to connect you to our campaigns, which are being carried out across the entire United Nations system,” Ban Ki-moon added.

“I urge others to join this global push for progress. Let us empower young people with the resources, backing and space they need to create lasting change in our world,” he advocated.