Africa’s Youth Unrest: A Cry for Economic Opportunities

The recent wave of protests sweeping across Africa is a stark reminder of the continent's youthful population's growing frustration and disillusionment with the lack of economic opportunities. Young people, who make up a significant proportion of the population, are taking to the streets to express their discontent with the status quo. At the heart of their protests is a sense of betrayal - a feeling that the promises made to them have not been kept.Africa is home to the world's youngest population, with over 60% of its citizens under the age of 25. However, this demographic advantage has not translated into economic prosperity for the majority of young people. Despite the continent's growing economy, many young Africans are struggling to find employment, access education, and make ends meet. The protests are a manifestation of their anger and frustration at being left behind.In many African countries, the youth unemployment rate is alarmingly high, with some estimates suggesting that it is as high as 90% in certain countries. The lack of job opportunities has forced many young people to become entrepreneurs, often out of necessity rather than choice. However, the informal sector, which many young people are forced to operate in, offers little in terms of security, stability, or social protection.The protests also highlight the disconnect between the promises made by governments and the reality on the ground. Many African governments have made commitments to create jobs, improve education, and provide social services, but these promises have not been fulfilled. Young people feel that their leaders have failed to deliver on their promises, and that they have been left to fend for themselves.The protests are not just about economic opportunities; they are also about the future. Young people are demanding a better future for themselves and for their countries. They want to be able to access quality education, secure jobs, and live in a safe and prosperous environment. They are calling on their governments to take concrete steps to address the challenges they face and to create a more equitable and just society.The African Union's Agenda 2063, which aims to create a "transformed" Africa by 2063, has been touted as a solution to the continent's youth unemployment crisis. However, critics argue that the plan is too ambitious and that its implementation is uncertain. Moreover, many young people feel that they have been excluded from the planning and decision-making process, and that their voices are not being heard.As the protests continue to spread across Africa, it is clear that the youth are demanding change. They are calling on their governments to take bold action to address the economic and social challenges they face. The question is, will their voices be heard? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain - the future of Africa depends on the future of its youth. If their demands are not met, the consequences could be dire. The continent's stability, security, and prosperity depend on the ability of its leaders to create opportunities for its young people. The clock is ticking.