Africa is at a pivotal moment. Recent global disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, to sharp declines in foreign aid, have exposed the continent’s structural vulnerabilities. At the same time, Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with over 60% under the age of 25. As development aid shrinks by an estimated $50 billion annually and fiscal space tightens, investing in youth is not just urgent, but it’s essential.
Last year at the 2024 AVPA Conference held in Nairobi, this was the focus of the powerful session “The Youth Factor: Africa’s Path to Sustainable Jobs and Growth”. Panelists agreed: future-proofing Africa means equipping young people with skills, jobs, entrepreneurship pathways, and platforms for civic engagement.
Each year, 11 million young Africans enter the workforce, but only 3 million jobs exist. Yet across the continent, promising solutions are emerging.