Analysis: How can Africa, others harness potentials of rising youth population?
Youth watch
A “young population” refers to a demographic with a high proportion of children, adolescents, and young adults, characterised by a low median age and significant growth potential. According to a 2021 Report by USAID, the age range includes early adolescence (10-14), adolescence (15-19), emerging adulthood (20-24), and transition to adulthood (25-29). This population can drive economic growth and innovation but also presents challenges in education, employment, and healthcare that require strategic policy responses.
The Global Youth Outlook 2024 notes that there are approximately 1.8 billion individuals aged 10 to 24, making this the largest youth generation in history. This demographic represents about 16% of the global population and is projected to grow, with an estimated 1.9 billion young people expected to reach age 15 between 2015 and 2030.
Hence, this article aims to explore the continents and countries with the youngest populations, the opportunities and challenges they face, and their global impact.
World’s Most Youth Populous Continent
Global demographic trends indicate significant shifts in population structures, particularly regarding youthful populations. The USAID publication indicates also that 90% of the youth population lives in developing countries. Specifically, it highlights that among the 1.8 billion young people globally, a significant majority reside in less developed regions, which face various challenges related to poverty, health, and employment opportunities.
According to the World Population Prospect 2024 regions like Africa and parts of Asia (notably India and Pakistan) have the highest proportions of young people. Africa is recognised for having the most populous youth population globally due to several key factors:
Youth Demographics: Approximately 60% of Africa’s population is under the age of 25, with projections indicating that by 2050, Africa will have around 850 million youth aged 15 to 35, constituting about 25% of the world’s total youth population.
Growth Projections: The continent’s youth population is expected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting it could reach nearly 1 billion by 2063.
Here are the statistics for the first ten African countries with the highest youth populations according to African Business Insider:
| Country | Youth Percentage | Median Age | Fertility Rate |
| Niger | 50.7% | 14.8 | 8.0 |
| Uganda | 47.7% | 15.7 | 5.4 |
| Mali | 47.4% | 16.1 | 5.4 |
| Angola | 45.9% | 15.9 | 5.5 |
| Chad | 48.0% | 16.1 | 5.7 |
| Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) | 45.3% | 16.7 | 6.0 |
| Malawi | 46.5% | 16.8 | 4.0 |
| Zambia | 46.0% | 16.9 | 4.6 |
| Mozambique | 48.4% | 17.0 | 4.8 |
| Benin | 4.3% | 17.0 | 5.0 |
Source: African Business Insider’s 2024 Report on first 10 African countries with the youngest population.
The data highlights African countries with youthful populations, where youth percentages range from 44.3% to 50.7% and median ages from 14.8 to 17.0 years. Fertility rates are high, peaking at 8.0 in Niger. These figures highlight the significant youth demographic trends in these African countries, which are crucial for their socio-economic development.
Research has indicated that the demographic trends in Africa, particularly the youthful population, can be attributed to several historical, cultural, and socio-economic factors.
Historically, Africa has seen rapid population growth since the mid-20th century, with growth rates increasing from less than 0.1% in 1900 to approximately 3.2% by 1980-1990. This has resulted in a young demographic profile characterised by high birth rates and declining mortality rates due to healthcare improvements.
Culturally, large families are valued as signs of wealth and social status, with traditional practices promoting early marriages and childbearing.
Economically, challenges such as high unemployment and limited education access hinder job opportunities for youth, leading to political disenfranchisement and social unrest. Urban migration for better prospects often results in overcrowded cities with fierce job competition, exacerbating underemployment issues.
This growth contrasts sharply with declining youth populations in other regions, such as Europe and Asia. Many developed regions, such as Europe and North America, are witnessing ageing populations, with a growing percentage of individuals aged 65 and older.
According to data from Eurostat, as of 2024, the first ten European countries with the highest youth populations (aged 0-14) are:
| Country | Youth Percentage | Median Age | Fertility Rate |
| Turkey | 23% | 32.4 | 2.1 |
| Ireland | 20.3% | 39.7 | 1.7 |
| France | 17.9% | 41.4 | 1.8 |
| Sweden | 17.8% | 41.4 | 1.7 |
| Germany | 13.8% | 47.0 | 1.5 |
| Greece | 14% | 46.0 | 1.3 |
| Spain | 14% | 44.9 | 1.3 |
| Italy | 13.5% | 48.4 | 1.3 |
| Portugal | 13.4% | 48.0 | 1.4 |
| Bulgaria | 14% | 45.5 | 1.5 |
Source: Eurostat’s 2024 report on ten European countries with the highest youth populations (aged 0-14)
These statistics highlight the varying demographics across Europe, with Turkey and Ireland leading in youth percentages while countries like Italy and Germany exhibit higher median ages alongside lower youth proportions. The combination of an ageing population, cultural shifts towards smaller families, and migration trends all contribute to the low youth population observed in many European nations.
Opportunities and Potential of a Young Population
The advantages of a youthful demographic are crucial for driving sustainable development, particularly in regions like Africa. The United Nations report explained that young people represent a significant potential for economic growth and innovation. Their adaptability and familiarity with technology can enhance productivity and stimulate entrepreneurship, leading to job creation and economic resilience.
Socially, youth bring dynamism and creativity, influencing cultural trends and promoting inclusivity. Their engagement in social issues fosters civic participation and encourages a more vibrant civil society. Politically, young people are often at the forefront of movements advocating for change, holding leaders accountable and pushing for policies that reflect their aspirations.
The challenges
Research has indicated that regions with a youthful population face significant challenges that hinder their development. High unemployment rates are a primary concern, often exceeding 30% in many areas, leading to economic instability and social unrest. For example, youth unemployment in the Middle East and North Africa frequently surpasses 20%, while countries like South Africa report rates above 50%.
Additionally, the rapid growth of the youth population strains education and healthcare systems, resulting in inadequate resources and services. Many countries struggle to provide quality education, contributing to low literacy rates among young people.
Political instability is another critical issue; young individuals often feel excluded from decision-making processes. This lack of inclusion can lead to disenfranchisement and increased activism, which may destabilise governments.
Why is the ageing population More Impactful than the Youth?
One might say that youthful nations are expected to be more developed than ageing nations, but the reverse is often the case. According to research from Kotschy and Bloom (2023), ageing populations in established economies like Japan and those in Europe benefit from accumulated wealth and experience, contributing to productivity and economic stability. Older individuals typically possess valuable skills that enhance mentorship and leadership within organisations.
These populations tend to save more for retirement, stimulating investment in the economy. While challenges such as rising healthcare costs exist, the combination of economic stability, investment in human capital, and adaptive policies allows ageing countries to maintain higher levels of development compared to youthful countries facing unemployment and underemployment.
What youthful nations must do to improve
The World Youth Report emphasises the need for meaningful engagement of youth in governance to address these challenges effectively. Therefore, harnessing the potential of young people is essential for sustainable development, as they contribute to economic growth, social innovation, and political transformation. It indicated that youthful regions can maximise their potential through strategic investments in education, technology, and healthcare.
Embracing technology:
Investing in technology infrastructure enables access to information and resources. Digital platforms can facilitate job matching and career counselling, connecting youth with employment opportunities.
Enhancing healthcare:
Improving healthcare systems ensures that young people are healthy and productive. Access to quality healthcare services promotes overall well-being, which is essential for effective participation in the workforce.
Investment in education: Prioritising education is crucial for developing a skilled workforce. Tailored programmes, including vocational training and apprenticeships, equip youth with market-relevant skills, enhancing employability. For example, the report also indicates that initiatives that focus on STEM education can prepare young people for emerging industries, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
STEM is an acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It encompasses a broad range of academic disciplines that are interconnected and often emphasise problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Importance of STEM
Economic Growth: STEM fields are crucial for driving innovation and economic development. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations are projected to grow by 10.8% through 2032, significantly outpacing non-STEM job growth at 2.3%.
Skill Development: A STEM education equips students with versatile skills applicable in various industries, enhancing their employability and adaptability in the workforce.
Global Competitiveness: Countries that invest in STEM education tend to have a competitive edge in the global market as they produce a skilled workforce capable of tackling complex challenges.
By investing in these areas, youthful regions can harness their demographic advantages to foster sustainable development and economic growth.
