Africa’s Youth are Shaping Africa's Destiny in a New Era

The echoes of uprisings across Africa, from the streets of West Africa to the bustling cities of Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, and Nigeria, are a clarion call for change. These recent movements reflect the collective frustrations of a continent's youth who are no longer willing to accept the status quo. In these voices, we hear demands for better governance, accountability, and justice. The urgency is palpable, and it is time for us all to heed this call with intentionality and purpose. 

Africa is the youngest continent in the world, with over 70% of its population under the age of 30. This demographic is not just a statistic; it represents a powerful force for change. These young people are the most educated and globally connected generation Africa has ever seen. They are informed, engaged, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. They understand that their future hinges not only on political reform but also on the sustainable management of the continent's rich natural resources. 

But their focus is not just on urban governance. As the world grapples with food insecurity and climate change, African youth are keenly aware that their future depends on the health of their ecosystems. In the rural heartlands, young people are as engaged as the youth we see protesting in our cities, but their concerns are more directly linked to the land that sustains them. Agriculture, environmental well-being, and conservation are not abstract concepts to these young people; they are lifelines and sources of economic opportunity. And they understand that the preservation of wetlands, responsible natural resource management, and the mitigation of human-wildlife conflict are essential to their survival and prosperity. 

This generation of young Africans—urban and rural--is not content with merely being participants in the conservation narrative; they demand a seat at the table where decisions are made. They are asking hard questions about the future of the environment and its place in it. How do our governments and businesses ensure that development is sustainable? How do we balance economic growth with the need to preserve our natural heritage? How do we make sure that the benefits of conservation are felt by all, especially those who live closest to nature? 

The recent upheavals represent a rejection of institutions that have failed to solve important issues such as corruption and poor governance. They are more than merely protests against these problems. The younger generation has realized they can't wait for someone else to figure out these issues for them. By assuming responsibility for the situation, they are changing Africa's political and social climate. 

For organizations like the African Wildlife Foundation, this moment presents both a challenge and an opportunity. If we are to succeed in building a future for Africa where people and wildlife thrive, we must engage with youth in meaningful and impactful ways. We must help everyone recognize that conservation is more than just about protecting animals and habitats; it is about ensuring that the people who live in and around conservation areas have a stake in their future. It is about creating opportunities for young people to lead, innovate, and drive change. 

We no longer treat young people as passive beneficiaries of our programs; they are now active participants and leaders in the process. We have made a fundamental shift in how we operate—moving from a top-down approach to one that actively seeks out and prioritizes the voices and needs of young Africans. At every stage of our work, we ensure that their perspectives shape our strategies, and their leadership drives our initiatives. This transformation reflects our commitment to empowering the next generation to take ownership of conservation efforts, ensuring that their future is secured through their active involvement. 

The recent uprisings are not just a call for political change; they are a demand for a new social contract that recognizes the rights of young people to a sustainable future. For too long, youth have been excluded from the decision-making processes that shape their lives. This must change. 

Governments, the private sector, and international NGOs like mine must embrace youth. We must hire them, listen to them, validate their experiences, and give them the tools to develop sustainable solutions. This means investing in education, creating jobs, and supporting initiatives that empower young people to lead for the future. In doing so, we can demonstrate that conservation is not just a moral imperative; it is a practical necessity. 

Because, ultimately youth are the true custodians of our natural heritage, and their involvement in conservation is not optional—it is essential. These demonstrations have shown us that when young people are excluded from the decision-making process, they will find ways to make their voices heard. The sooner we embrace their energy and ideas, the sooner we can build a future that is sustainable, equitable, and just. 

The future youth will inherit for is shared—and shaped--by all of us. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that it is a future worth fighting for.

The time for half-measures is over. It is time to take a stand, with Africa’s youth leading the way.