The Resurgence of Youth Political Activism in Africa: An Analysis of the Causes and Consequences

In Africa's recent history, a wave of youth-led protests and political activism has swept across the continent, from the Arab Spring to the ongoing unrest in Kenya and Malawi. This phenomenon contradicts the prevailing narrative of a disinterested and apathetic youth generation. Despite the challenges faced by the continent's youth, including high levels of unemployment, corruption, and discrimination, their participation in politics has been rekindled. This resurgence can be attributed to two primary factors: the demographic strength of the youth population and the deep-seated grievances against the current crop of leaders.

Key Takeaways:

• The youth population in Africa is projected to reach 28% of the world's population aged between 15 and 29 years by 2050, according to the World Bank.
• In Africa, about 40% of the population is under 15 years of age, while nearly 70% is under 30 years.
• In Nigeria, the youth population represents about 60% of the total population, making it a significant demographic majority.
• The current crop of African leaders is disproportionately composed of octogenarian individuals who are out of touch with the values and interests of most of their population, the youth.
• The inability of these leaders to provide realistic policies to absorb the teeming youth in the labour market has contributed to the ongoing insecurity, urban social unrest, and political instability witnessed on the continent.
• The youth in Africa attribute their apathy towards politics to "official corruption and pervasiveness of discrimination based on age and gender" by the gerontocratic and inept political leadership, as observed in a study conducted at the University of Ghana.

Statistics:

• 40% of Africa's population is under 15 years of age, while nearly 70% is under 30 years (World Bank estimate).
• Africa's share of the world population aged between 15 and 29 years may reach 28% by 2050 (World Bank estimate).
• In Nigeria, the youth population represents about 60% of the total population.
• 75% of the population in some African countries is under 30 years old, with a large share of the 15-29-year-olds persisting for decades to come (World Bank estimate).

Sources:

• World Bank estimates
• A study conducted at the University of Ghana
• A study undertaken while at the University of Johannesburg