PROMOTING LED YOUTH ENGAGEMENT AND EMPOWERMENT FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

By Latjor Wuon Lat Dak

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa, endowed with vast natural resources, faces significant challenges that hinder economic empowerment, particularly among its youth. Given the harsh realities that many regions and countries have to go through in today’s global economy, it is necessary, to advocate for a just transition that emphasizes youth’s involvement and their collective agency in the tedious process of economic empowerment.

This paper underscores the importance of engaging young people in social change, more specifically, in empowering all members of society to lift themselves out of poverty. By analyzing existing frameworks and suggesting potential ones, this paper proposes using youth as an economic moving force in connection with a sustainable economy.

Keywords: Economic development, Youth empowerment equity, social equity, sustainable practices, Sub-Saharan Africa.

Introduction

Sub-Saharan African region is abundant not only with natural resources but also with biological assets, still, it suffers from tremendous problems, which retard the economic empowerment of the young populations Climate change exacerbates these challenges, further complicating the landscape of economic opportunities. To create a sustainable future, there is an urgent need to focus on empowering youth voices and fostering their agency within economic frameworks. This approach not only addresses immediate economic needs but also lays the groundwork for a more equitable and sustainable future.

The importance of collective youth voice

The effective and coordinated use of collective youth voice and other youth advocates by young participation through leaders is of paramount significance in fighting to defend economic policies that are founded on the causes and the aspirations of their target beneficiaries: the young people. Emotional poverty and hunger can only be addressed by young people’s participation as young people are often the first to feel the effects of the economic burden derived from young poverty, high rates of unemployment, or lack of resources.

Therefore, ensuring active participation from them is instrumental in achieving equity and people-centered development where economic policies are not simply imposed but deemed necessary by the people. Collective youth involvement makes it possible for policies which seek to carry the aspirations and issues of young people to be formulated, thus ensuring that young people's place in the economy is well regarded.

Confronting Economic Inequalities

Sub-Saharan Africa is a traditionally stratified society with several social inequalities lasting for centuries, such as gender inequality, educational inequalities, and economic inequalities. Young women suffer the most from those inequalities being subjected to different bars, including economic participation. Promoting gender equality and empowering young women through targeted initiatives can help bridge these gaps. Economic empowerment programs must prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that marginalized groups (refugees & IDP, rural youth, and indigenous populations), have a voice in shaping their economic futures.

The Importance of Sustainable Economic Development

It is imperative to shift the attitude and behavior in the economy toward sustainability for its long-term development. Historically, the over-reliance of sub-Saharan African economies on extractive industries has posed risks, especially now that global economic dynamics are becoming more sustainable. There is an opportunity for youth to champion the importance of sustainable ways of doing business including using alternative energy and practicing agricultural sustainability. Due to their positions, the youth have to be equipped with skills and knowledge to spearhead the change … into green economies that are innovative and entrepreneurial.

Recommendations for Economic Empowerment

To embrace a united collective youth voice and agency in economic empowerment, some recommendations may be put forward:

1.   Policy Reform: Governments must work on and put in place mechanisms that enhance youth participation in the process of decision-making on matters relating to the economy. This includes putting in place mechanisms that enable young people to participate in economic spaces and influence policies.
2. Investment in Education and Skills Training: Young people need to be provided with quality education and vocational training in order for them to be able to participate in the changing economy. Education should focus on business skills, internet use, and sustainability.
3. Support for Youth-Led Initiatives: Funding and resources should be allocated to support youth-led economic initiatives. By empowering young entrepreneurs and innovators, governments and organizations can foster a culture of entrepreneurship and self-reliance.
4. Strengthening Community Networks: Building networks among youth can facilitate the sharing of knowledge, resources, and opportunities. Community-based initiatives can provide a platform for young people to collaborate and advocate for their economic interests.
5. Promoting Gender Equality: Targeted initiatives to empower young women are essential for achieving economic equity. Programs that provide mentorship, training, and access to resources can help dismantle barriers that limit women's economic participation.

Conclusion

The challenges facing youth in Sub-Saharan Africa necessitate a concerted effort to promote collective voice and agency in economic empowerment. By addressing social inequalities, investing in sustainable practices, and fostering youth engagement in decision-making processes, the region can create a more inclusive and equitable economic landscape.

References

1.    Cambridge University Press. (2022). Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment in Africa. Cambridge University Press.

2.    International Labour Organization (ILO). (2021). Youth Employment and Sustainable Development in Africa. ILO Publications.

3.    Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). (2018). Youth Entrepreneurship in Africa: Challenges and Opportunities. OECD Publishing.

4.    United Nations. (2020). The Role of Youth in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals. United Nations Publications.

5.    UN Women. (2021). Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Africa. UN Women Publications.

6.    World Bank. (2019). World Development Report: The Changing Nature of Work. World Bank Publications.

Author Biography

Latjor Wuon Lat Dak , a South Sudanese refugee advocate and Mastercard Foundation scholar at African Leadership University in Rwanda, where he is dedicated to empowering and supporting underprivileged youth through various initiatives. He founded SOUTH SUDAN YOUTH LEADERSHIP SCHOLARS NETWORK PROGRAM ,an organization focused on empowering underprivileged youth through education, leadership development, and mentorship and promotes inclusive development and economic empowerment in post-conflict regions across Sub-Saharan Africa.