Cashing in on Africa’s ‘youth dividend’

Abstract

Africa’s youth dividend presents a transformative opportunity for economic growth and sustainable industrialization. At the African Economic Conference 2023, young entrepreneurs emphasized the need for skills development, access to finance, and inclusive policies to unlock their potential. Despite challenges like limited funding and market barriers, emerging sectors like technology and the AfCFTA offer vast opportunities. Governments, the private sector, and youth organizations must collaborate to create an enabling environment for youth-led enterprises to thrive and drive Africa’s industrialization.