Addressing youth unemployment in Africa

Abstract

Youth unemployment is argued as one of the triggers of conflicts on the African continent. Enhancing innovation capacity and entrepreneurship have been noted as some of the strategies in reducing youth unemployment and, therefore, curb violence in Africa. In this light, the chapter appreciates the youth challenge and identifies ways of addressing youth unemployment in Africa. The chapter argues that the African youth surge provides significant opportunities for economic growth and enhanced peace and stability on the continent. The chapter suggests ways of addressing youth unemployment in Africa including, but not limited to the following: access to capital for the youth, agri-business, promotion of information communication technology skills, and long-term investment in education system that promotes entrepreneurship and job creation. This research is informed by data gathered from a number of interviews with key youth civil society leaders and academicians working with the youth and from relevant documents. The chapter contributes to the studies of peace and security in Africa as it interrogates the linkages between youth unemployment and conflicts. Additionally, the study explores the role of the youth in socio-economic development and promotion of peace and stability in the region.