Volunteers and youth celebrate Africa Scout Day and a shared vision for the continent’s future. More than 400 young people and volunteers from across SA and around Africa have gathered at SCOUTS SA’s Arrowe Park campsite in Benoni to celebrate the 16th Africa Scout Day under the theme “Strong Roots. Bright Future”. A theme that reflects the deep values of the Scout Movement, while recognising the potential of our young people to build a more peaceful and sustainable continent.
Africa Scout Day is commemorated annually on 13 March, following a resolution adopted by the African Union, uniting Scouts across the continent to reflect on their achievements and strengthen partnerships that increase social impact.
To kickstart the event at Arrowe Park, a vibrant and celebratory ceremony featuring a flag parade and addresses by local leaders, including Ward Councillor Mary Goby and Chief Commissioner Gary Pienaar took place.
Chief Scout Khonzaphi Mdaka planted a tree emphasizing the importance of having strong roots to build better futures, A traditional performance by Scouts from KwaZulu-Natal and a musical performance by the Gauteng Scouts pipe band concluded the opening after which youth members returned to their Patrols or socialise and plan.
Throughout the day, the park will transform into a vibrant learning space as Scouts rotate through a wide range of activities. These include a first aid skills base, bridge building challenges, water activities, a ham radio hub, and a code-breaking obstacle course. A dedicated Scouts for SDGs tent will also highlight how young people across South Africa and the wider African region are taking action to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.
For South Africa, the event also carries special significance. Scouting has been part of the country’s youth development landscape for 119 years, with the first Scout Troops appearing in 1908. Since then, generations of young people from all communities have been shaped by a programme that combines outdoor adventure with strong values and practical life skills.
Today, SCOUTS South Africa remains one of the country’s largest non-profit organisations supporting around 34 000 children, young people and adult volunteers nationwide. With programmes built around the Scout Promise and Law, young members develop character, citizenship and leadership skills while learning to serve their communities.
At the heart of SCOUTS South Africa’s programme is a simple but effective approach: learning by doing. Whether children and youth are building bridges, practising first aid, or exploring and conserving nature, young Scouts develop independence, teamwork, and resilience while discovering their own ability to lead. These experiences help prepare them to become responsible citizens who contribute positively to society.
As Africa Scout Day celebrations unfold in Benoni, the message is clear: the roots of Scouting run deep across the continent. And with millions of young people engaged in the movement, the future they are helping to build looks bright indeed.
Photos: Dawn Ledbitter, Jonathan Webber and Natasha Kayle