The role of youth in the transformation of society has been highlighted at all levels of development. Defying all odds and society's prejudices, young people are initiating actions to address: education, health care, poverty reduction, economic empowerment, skills development, environment protection, governance, human rights and democracy. The youth are undertaking actions for community good, while advocating policy changes and new policies that will facilitate sustainable development in their communities.

But are the youth given their due recognition for the good courses they are involved in? Does the involvement of the young people contribute in any meaningful way to progress? Dabesaki shows in "Service My Country" that young people are actually contributing to the development of their societies, and that their role is not only necessary but critical for any meaningful progress to take place.

Foreword by Raymonde Agossou

I know Dabesaki because he is a young person, he has a lot of challenges facing him, he has a lot of hopes, he believes that changes are possible. But on top of all those elements, he is convinced that he has the strength to fight the challenges, the knowledge and the skills to build his own capacity and leadership, to construct the avenues for self-achievement and the faith to work today to improve tomorrow, for himself, his family, his country and for Africa. He also understands that his contribution to the difficult development challenges of this continent, his frank and reliable commitment to good work, his values might help to overcome the negative perception that a number of adults still believe that young people are irresponsible and lazy people, searching for power and easy money. Dabesaki is one of the kinds I truly respect, trust and ready to support in everyday's life.