Africa is home to a vibrant and dynamic youth population. With under-25s making up more than 60% of Africa’s population, and young Africans projected to constitute 42% of global youth by 2030, it is important to understand and address the youth’s specific needs, aspirations, and challenges. While governments have launched numerous policies and programmes aimed at empowering young people, there is still a pressing need to fully address their concerns, including sustainable employment and inclusion in policy formulation and implementation.
In observation of International Youth Day, Afrobarometer and the Mastercard Foundation hosted a webinar to shed light on critical issues concerning African youth, including unemployment, views on democracy, and political participation. By bringing together development agencies, governments, media, and youth themselves, the webinar provided valuable insights to inform decision-making, facilitate effective policy formulation, and enhance engagement with the youth demographic.