To shape Africa’s future, ramp up investments in youth education and leadership
Investing in the leadership potential of young Africans, especially women and girls, is a step towards establishing Africa as a formidable and influential force on the global stage, says former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
The African continent is poised for transformational growth and change. With over 60% of the continent’s population under the age of 25, its demographic dividend is a beacon of hope and a promise of a prosperous future. Investing in the leadership potential of young Africans, especially women and girls, transcends beyond empowering individuals. It is an investment in holistic growth and a step towards establishing Africa as a formidable and influential force on the global stage.
Africa’s youth are not just seekers of change; they are its creators. My exchanges with young people prove they are talented, informed, educated, and ambitious. Already, they are redefining innovation, championing social causes, and spearheading climate action. Young voices featured prominently in the recent UN COP28 negotiations. This is a welcome shift, given that African nations and their young people will bear the brunt of climate change. They are ready to shape a rapidly evolving world that requires fresh perspectives and bold leadership.
However, realising this potential demands a strategic shift in our approach. Placing youth at the centre of our developmental agenda, especially in addressing global challenges like climate change, can usher in unprecedented growth and influence. This is a collective imperative, not just the duty of the young. The responsibility extends to all of us, across generations and borders, to collaborate for meaningful change. It is time we recognise that Africa’s transformation is inextricably linked to the empowerment of its youngest citizens.
Youth leadership is also the key to tackling the challenges to multilateralism, which underpins democracy, equity, the rule of law, and global peace. Giving young people the opportunity to access and ascend to leadership roles is a powerful way to give the African continent a powerful say in how global decisions are made, how multilateralism is protected and enhanced, and how global challenges are addressed. As a result, Africa will be able to lead the charge in creating a new world order, where global institutions – for peace, security, and economic growth – are no longer dominated by a small number of rich and powerful nations, but where those most affected by their policies are an integral part of the decision-making process.
By 2050, Africa’s population is projected to double, while remaining the youngest region globally. This demographic surge – paralleling our growing global footprint – necessitates ample opportunities for our youth. Such opportunities must be ingrained in decision-making processes at all governance levels, enriching local, national, and regional policy. Furthermore, we must ensure young Africans have access to spaces where their voices influence public and private institutions and policy-making, fostering a landscape where inclusivity and equity are not just concepts but practiced realities.
The cornerstone to nurturing ambitious and determined youth leadership is education. Through the opportunities to access quality education, training, and skills development, young people can attain the leadership roles that turn them into agents of transformative change.
SOURCE AFRICAN BUSINESS
