Africa is on the cusp of one of its most important decades. Since the turn of the 21st century, economic research has pinpointed the massive growth potential for the continent. There’s now a feeling that this is the decade when much of that potential will finally materialise. Africa is a young continent and over the next ten years, that young population is predicted to double. We look at why Africa’s youth hold the key to a crucial decade for the continent.
Young people are transforming African economies
Africa is becoming urbanised, following the pattern that has taken place elsewhere in the world. Cities are not only growing, but they are also getting younger. Ambitious, educated young people are demanding more from their leaders. This is creating pressure for better services as well as a demand for quality consumer goods. Africa’s young people are hungry for new technologies and for a greater share in the global economy. A spirit of entrepreneurship is taking root, with 56% of the economically active population considering themselves potential entrepreneurs, as opposed to just 21% in Asia and 31% in the Middle East.
New infrastructure projects are in demand
Africa’s young population see infrastructure as key to their own economic betterment as well as that of their nations. Currently, 1 in 3 Africans aged between 15-29 are underemployed. There is a vast pool of labour and a desire to learn new skills. Infrastructure projects are often the key drivers of both employment and skills training, and private sector investment can kickstart government action. There is a growing awareness across the continent of the need for lifelong learning and opportunities for people to retrain. There is also recognition that improved infrastructure is key to helping young people fulfil their entrepreneurial ambitions. New Africa based start-ups also want to be able to access global markets for their goods.
An ambitious continent
Africa is the only continent where the youth percentage of the population is increasing. The population of Africa is ambitious, increasingly global in its outlook and demanding more for themselves and their communities. Infrastructure will be key to helping them achieve their goals.
Youth hold the key to a crucial decade – where to find out more
Eight of the world’s fastest-growing economies are on the continent of Africa and there is a demand for clean, sustainable investment. Jabiut manages a wide range of diversified portfolios across several African countries. We work with investment partners to manage major capital projects to help African nations build and implement the basic infrastructure they need to allow their economies to thrive and their people live better lives. Read more about what we do or get in touch to discuss how we can work together and generate real returns for investment partners.
Read more about what we do.
Or get in touch to discuss how we can work together and generate real returns for investment partners.
About The Author
Tunde Ajia
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