Nairobi, Aug 20: Recent protests across Africa, notably in Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda, have highlighted a growing disillusionment among the continent’s youth. Africa, with the youngest population globally, is witnessing its young generation challenge the entrenched ruling classes, blaming them for missed economic opportunities and systemic corruption.
In Kenya, from mid-June to early August 2024, young citizens took to the streets in protest against what they described as rampant corruption and oppressive taxation under President William Ruto’s administration. Similar unrest brewed in Uganda, where potential protests were quickly quelled by the police following a stern warning from President Yoweri Museveni. Nigeria also experienced brief demonstrations against economic mismanagement by President Bola Tinubu’s government. These protests, though varying in scale and outcome, collectively signify a broader crisis: Africa’s youth are increasingly distrustful of their leaders, yet they struggle to convert their discontent into substantial political change.
The recent Africa Youth Forum 2024, held at the United Nations offices in Nairobi, gathered over 400 young people, mostly in their early to mid-20s, to discuss the growing intergenerational divide on the continent. The forum aimed to promote dialogue between the younger generation and the older ruling class, seeking to bridge the gap that has long hindered youth participation in governance and economic development.
Africa is home to more than 400 million individuals aged between 18 and 35. By 2030, it is estimated that 42% of all young people entering the global workforce will be African. Despite this demographic advantage, the continent’s youth often find themselves sidelined by leaders who are reluctant to relinquish power or to include younger voices in decision-making processes. This exclusion has fueled frustration and driven many young Africans to the streets in protest.
In Kenya, the recent youth-led protests forced the government to drop a contentious finance bill that would have imposed harsh taxation measures. President Ruto also disbanded his cabinet in a bid to appease the protesters, yet the demands for his resignation persisted. The protests, characterized by a “leaderless and tribeless” identity, have complicated the government’s efforts to engage in meaningful dialogue. Without open communication channels, the potential for long-term resolution remains uncertain.
In contrast, Rwanda has not witnessed the same level of unrest. However, young people there are advocating for more meaningful engagement with their leaders. They argue that understanding and contributing to national decision-making processes are crucial for the country’s stability and progress. The challenges of digital access further complicate these efforts. As of 2021, only 43% of Africans had internet access, compared to a global average of 66%. This digital divide limits opportunities for youth engagement, innovation, and participation in the global economy.
The lack of adequate infrastructure, both physical and intellectual, poses a significant barrier to the potential of Africa’s youth. Without the necessary tools and platforms, young Africans are left with limited opportunities to influence policies and contribute to their countries’ development.
As the continent’s young population continues to demand change, the future of Africa may well depend on whether the ruling class is willing to listen and adapt. The ongoing unrest is a clear signal that the old ways of governance are being challenged, and the younger generation is ready to take the lead. The question remains whether Africa’s leaders will heed this call for change or risk being overtaken by a new era driven by youth determination and resilience.