Global South Pole

Africa’s Most Important Resource is Its People, Expert Says

11:00, 24 February 2025
Aliyu Bello
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Africa is the fastest-growing region in the world, with its youth population set to double by 2050. With more young people entering the workforce than any other continent, the continent holds immense potential for economic transformation. But will this demographic boom be a driving force for progress or a missed opportunity?
Sputnik
By 2050, Africa is expected to contribute the highest number of working-class people in the world, according to UN projections. This demographic shift presents both an opportunity and a challenge.
Dr. Eliya Zulu, Executive Director of the African Institute for Development Policy, emphasizes that Africa’s growing population could be a game-changer, provided the right investments are made.

“If the continent makes the right investments to make sure that this population is well-educated, it’s healthy, and there are economic opportunities for them, then this population will be a huge resource for Africa’s transformation and not only Africa but also for the rest of the world,” he noted.

The youth’s potential is particularly crucial in an era of rapid technological advancement. Dr. Zulu highlighted that young people are naturally more innovative than older generations. He stressed the importance of equipping them with 21st-century labor market skills.

“There have to be deliberate strategic investments that have to be made to equip these young people who are going to be entering the labor force in the next two decades, to be well skilled. The educational systems on the continent need to be improved. They need to start focusing more on innovation and critical thinking,” Dr. Zulu stated.

Despite existing policies, gaps remain in their implementation. Dr. Zulu acknowledged that “at the policy level, many African countries actually do have policies, but the challenge lies in execution.” He called for stronger accountability and efficiency in implementing youth-focused initiatives.
On the global stage, he noted that Africa’s population growth has often been met with skepticism, but insists that Africa must take charge of its own development.

“The interest to develop this continent has to be owned and driven by Africans. And if we own the development agenda, we drive the development agenda, we set the development agenda. And of course, work with others as they meet their own personal interests for them to also help be part of this journey. The continent will not look like the dark spot anymore on the global map. Africa can rise and achieve its developmental objectives and be especially with that population that Africa will have. It will be a very strong development partner that nobody can dare ignore,” the executive director declared.

Also featured in this podcast:
An exclusive interview conducted by a Sputnik Africa correspondent on the sidelines of the 38th African Union summit with the President of Botswana, His Excellency Duma Gideon Boko. In the conversation, the newly elected leader shares his vision for Botswana and Africa at large, touching on key continental issues discussed at the summit.
To listen to the whole discussion, tune in to the Global South Pole podcast, brought to you by Sputnik Africa.
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