African Countries Where Youths Have Lost Hope in the Economy

Across many African countries, young people are growing increasingly concerned about the state of their country’s economy. For years, they have faced rising unemployment, inflation, and the cost of living, all of which have severely impacted their confidence in the future. 

In 2024, the African Youth Survey revealed that a significant number of youths feel that their countries’ economies are heading in the wrong direction. 

In several African countries, including some of the largest economies like Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya, young people are expressing a sense of frustration and pessimism about what lies ahead. 

The survey data shows that while there are pockets of optimism in places like Rwanda and Côte d’Ivoire, in many other parts of the continent, youth feel trapped by poor economic prospects. Here are the top countries where the youth believe their economies are in serious trouble.

Nigeria – 92%

Nigeria tops the list with 92% of its youth population feeling that the economy is headed in the wrong direction. Young Nigerians are facing soaring inflation, high unemployment rates, and a rising cost of living. The Russia-Ukraine conflict has worsened the situation by driving up fuel and food prices, further reducing their spending power. Many feel that the government is not doing enough to tackle these issues, leaving them worried about their future in the country.

Cameroon – 86%

In Cameroon, 86% of the youth believe that the economic outlook is bleak. The country’s economy has struggled to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, with slow growth and rising living costs making it hard for young people to thrive. Political instability and internal conflict have also dampened hopes for economic improvement.

Ghana – 84%

Ghana is another country where youth disillusionment is growing. A large 84% of young people feel that the economy is going in the wrong direction. High inflation and increasing debt levels have caused concern, making it difficult for many to afford basic needs. Job opportunities for the youth are limited, and this has fueled frustration.

Republic of Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) – 82%

In the Republic of Congo, 82% of the youth are pessimistic about the economy. The country’s reliance on oil exports has made it vulnerable to global economic shocks, and young people are feeling the effects. Unemployment remains high, and there are limited opportunities for those entering the job market, adding to their uncertainty about the future.

Zambia – 82%

Zambia ties with Congo-Brazzaville, with 82% of youths worried about the economic direction. Like many other African nations, Zambia has struggled with debt, and inflation has hurt the purchasing power of ordinary citizens. Youths are particularly concerned about job prospects and rising living costs, which have made it difficult to secure a stable future.

Kenya – 81%

Kenya, one of Africa’s largest economies, sees 81% of its youth feeling concerned about the country’s economic trajectory. The high cost of living, combined with rising unemployment, has led many young Kenyans to lose confidence in their economic future. Inflation and stagnant wages have only added to their woes, making it harder for them to save or invest in their future.

Chad – 75%

In Chad, 75% of young people believe that the economy is heading in the wrong direction. Political instability and ongoing conflict have hampered economic growth, and youths are finding it difficult to see any hope for change. The country also faces challenges related to poverty and lack of infrastructure, further limiting opportunities for the youth.

Malawi – 75%

Malawi ties with Chad, with 75% of its youth population feeling disillusioned about the economy. The country has faced challenges related to poor governance and weak economic policies, which have made it difficult for young people to thrive. Inflation and limited job opportunities have left many feeling frustrated and uncertain about their future.

South Africa – 71%

In South Africa, 71% of the youth feel that the economy is not on the right path. Once considered a powerhouse of the continent, the country is now grappling with high unemployment, especially among young people. Economic inequality, combined with rising living costs, has fueled discontent.

Ethiopia – 70%

Rounding out the list is Ethiopia, where 70% of the youth believe that the economy is going in the wrong direction. Political instability and ethnic conflicts have disrupted economic growth, and young people are finding it hard to secure jobs and build stable lives.