However, this potential is accompanied by significant challenges, including high unemployment rates, an outdated education system, and political exclusion. Despite these hurdles, Africa's youth, particularly Generation Z, are determined to play an active role in shaping their societies.
Unemployment remains one of the most pressing issues facing Africa's young population. With 40% of the youth unemployed, the situation is dire. The lack of job opportunities not only affects economic stability but also fuels social unrest, crime, and substance abuse.
Observers say that this youth unemployment crisis has far-reaching consequences. When young people are excluded from the job market, they become disillusioned and often turn to protests and uprisings.
The frustration of Generation Z, which constitutes 31% of Africa's population, is palpable. These young people are demanding more than just promises. They want action. A major part of the solution lies in reforming the education system to better align with today's economic demands.
At the ongoing African Education and Youth Employability Forum in Nouakchott, Mauritania, President Paul Kagame has called for urgent need to reform Africa's education systems. He shares the view that Africa's growing youth population is a critical driver of economic growth, this opportunity cannot simply just go to waste.
'In just a decade from now, young Africans will represent the biggest share of the global population entering the workforce. This generation has the potential of becoming a powerful engine for growth and prosperityâ€"not just for Africa, but for the rest of the world,' he said.
Experts believe that many African countries still offer curricula that fail to prepare students for the modern job market. Graduates often lack the practical skills needed to thrive in industries that are rapidly evolving due to technological advancements.
It means Africa must invest in industry-based education and ensure that young people graduate with skills that directly correlate with the needs of employers. More importantly, the education system must shift from preparing students for traditional, white-collar jobs to cultivating entrepreneurs.
Aby Agina, a financial journalism expert says that young Africans today are not just looking for employment, they are eager to create opportunities for themselves and their communities.
'But the power of Africa's youth does not stop at economics. Young people across the continent are also calling for more political engagement. They are rejecting the outdated notion that they are 'leaders of tomorrow. They are the 'leaders of today,' Agina says.
According to him, Rwanda stands out as an example of positive youth integration into governance. With young people holding key positions in both the public and private sectors, Rwanda has demonstrated that youth inclusion is not only possible but also essential for national progress.
Technology has also become a powerful tool for Africa's youth in driving change. Many young people are using digital platforms to launch businesses, access global markets, and push for social justice.
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) presents a unique opportunity for Africa's youth to leapfrog traditional barriers to success. Rather than fearing AI as a threat to employment, young people can use it to enhance productivity, conduct research, and improve their businesses.
Social media, too, has become a platform for youth to raise awareness on critical issues, mobilize for social change, and build entrepreneurial ventures. By embracing technology, Africa's youth can redefine the continent's economic and social landscape.
The private sector and civil society also have crucial roles to play in empowering Africa's youth. The private sector is the largest source of employment on the continent, and by creating more job opportunities and supporting youth-focused initiatives, businesses can help tackle the unemployment crisis.
Similarly, civil society organizations are essential in mobilizing young people and providing them with the tools and platforms to advocate for change. Governments must collaborate with these sectors to create a conducive environment where youth can thrive, innovate, and contribute to national development.
The power of Africa's youth lies in their ambition, resilience, and drive to create a better future. However, to unlock their full potential, African governments, private sectors, and civil society must provide the right opportunities, resources, and platforms for engagement.
If this happens, Africa's youth can lead the way in driving transformative changeâ€"not just in their own countries, but across the continent and globally.
Africa's future lies with its bold, tech-savvy youth. With the right support, they can drive progress and create a brighter, more prosperous continent for all.
Sam K Nkurunziza
Source : https://en.igihe.com/politics-48/article/the-power-of-africa-s-youth-in-driving-change-video
