Our Youth in Focus: Africa’s Path to a Brighter Digital Future

International Youth Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a global celebration of the immense potential that lies within the younger generation. We acknowledge the critical role that youth play in shaping the future and recognize the unique challenges they face. Africa, in particular, stands out with its dynamic and rapidly growing youth population. According to recent statistics, Africa is home to the world’s youngest population, with over 60% of its people under the age of 25, —a figure that is projected to grow as the continent’s population surges from 1.4 billion today to an estimated 2.5 billion by 2050, according to the United Nations. This is more than just numbers—it represents the continent’s greatest asset, offering an opportunity for transformation and growth.  

Projections suggest that by 2050, Sub-Saharan Africa’s population will nearly double, with a staggering 99% increase, further solidifying the region’s status as the world’s youngest. Even more striking, by 2063, young people are expected to make up half of Africa’s 2 billion working-age population. This presents an opportunity for Africa to leverage this youthful energy to drive a digital and economic revolution. The theme for International Youth Day 2024, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” resonates deeply with Africa’s current trajectory.  

As the continent continues to experience a digital revolution, young people are at the forefront of this change, driving innovation and progress. The United Nations highlights that digital transformation plays a critical role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with youth being pivotal in harnessing the power of technology to create lasting change. 

Digital technologies are integral to achieving at least 70% of the SDG targets, with innovations like mobile platforms, artificial intelligence, and data-driven decision-making playing crucial roles. Despite challenges like the digital divide, education and skill gap, and limited funding, Africa’s youth are at the forefront of adopting and shaping these technologies, making them key players in the global digital landscape. As we approach the 2030 deadline for the SDGs, the energy, creativity, and resilience of Africa’s youth are essential to harnessing the transformative power of technology and addressing the continent’s most pressing challenges. 

However, realizing this potential requires a joined effort to empower young people with the tools and resources they need to lead Africa into a future defined by digital and economic transformation. 

The Demographic Advantage of the Youthquake 

The ‘Youthquake’, as many call it, defines a huge growth potential for growth. This youth surge presents a massive opportunity for economic and social development. A dynamic, young population can drive innovation, fuel entrepreneurship, and provide a robust labor force essential for powering Africa’s economies.  

The energy and creativity of young Africans are already evident in the rise of tech startups, (particularly in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa), the flourishing of creative industries, and the growing influence of social movements driven by youth activism. These are the seeds of a future where Africa is not just participating in the global economy but leading it.  

Yet, the potential of this demographic remains largely untapped. Suppose they are given the tools and opportunities to thrive, they can transform the continent into a hub of innovation, prosperity, and sustainable development, setting the stage for a brighter future for all. 

Yet, before we fully capitalize on this advantage,  

Africa must address foundational barriers. These include high unemployment rates, limited access to quality education, the digital divide, and inadequate infrastructure. Crucially, Africa must build its own robust digital platforms and systems, rather than relying on external solutions. Currently, Africa lacks indigenous platforms for digital identity verification (eKYC) and other critical technologies, making the continent dependent on solutions from other regions. 

In an interview Robert Opp, Chief Digital Officer of UNDP had with our Founder & Chief Editor Akim Benamara, he emphasized this saying:  

“Africa is a very youthful continent and that means there are a lot of power forces of innovation out there. We see amazing things coming out of the local ecosystem. The challenge is that some real constraints face most countries in Africa, whether it be financing availability, issues related to the regulatory environment, or other policies. So here’s the good news which is plenty of youthful energy and intelligence, and the less good news is we have to work those constraints.”   – Robert Opp, Chief Digital Officer, UNDP 

To capitalize on the youthquake, Africa needs to focus on: 

Digital Literacy (Upskilling & Reskilling) 

According to the World Economic Forum, 70% of future jobs will require digital skills, making it imperative that Africa’s youth are not left behind. Strengthening educational systems to include digital literacy and STEM subjects from an early age is vital. Investing in skills development will prepare the youth to thrive in a digital economy. Investments in education and digital infrastructure must be prioritized to create an enabling environment where young people can innovate, create, and lead. Public-private partnerships can play a vital role in expanding access to technology, while educational reforms should focus on integrating digital literacy and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects into curriculums from an early age. 

Lacina Kone, the CEO of Smart Africa also highlighted this need in a conversation he had with our Founder & Chief Editor, Akim Benamara,  

“Talking about the young Africans, that’s where the skills, reskilling, and upskilling come into play. We will never reach that point if we don’t go and reskill ourselves on the emerging technology (AI)”.  - Lacina Kone, CEO, Smart Africa   

Affordability and Connectivity:

Access to technology is equally critical. While Africa has made significant strides in mobile connectivity, the digital divide remains a significant barrier to progress. Many young people still lack access to reliable internet, affordable devices, and digital literacy programs. Bridging this gap is crucial for ensuring that all African youth, regardless of their background, can participate fully in the digital economy.  

Indigenous Digital Platforms:  

The youth have the potential to spearhead the development of home-grown digital solutions and eKYC systems, provided they are given the necessary resources, tools, and encouragement to harness their passion for technology. By investing in local talent and building a robust infrastructure that supports innovation, Africa can reduce its dependency on external technologies and foster long-term growth through indigenous digital platforms. 

Cybersecurity Training:  

Investing in cybersecurity education will help protect digital assets and build trust in digital platforms. This will also prepare the youth to address and manage digital threats effectively. 

Mentorship and Entrepreneurship: 

 Supporting young innovators through mentorship and entrepreneurship programs will turn ideas into successful ventures. By fostering an ecosystem that encourages creativity and entrepreneurship, Africa can transform its youth bulge into a powerful force for economic growth and social progress. 

Collaborative efforts are essential. 

 Governments, private sectors, educational institutions, and civil society must come together to equip young Africans with the digital skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.  

It is important to remember that the tech industry does not operate in a vacuum, and its efforts should be part of a larger, multi-stakeholder collaboration. By leveraging technology as a catalyst, it is possible to empower the youth, promote social mobility, and contribute to the nation’s socioeconomic prosperity.   - Yesh Surjoodeen, the Managing Director for HP Southern Africa 

The call to action: Africa’s future lies in the hands of its youth. By equipping them with the right skills and access to technology, we can empower a generation that will lead the continent toward a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future. The time to act is now, and the opportunity is unprecedented. Let us seize it.  

Wishing you a memorable International Youth Day –From the TechAfrica News team.