Africa’s future workforce:
what industrialisation means for young people
As home to the world’s youngest population, Africa has a unique opportunity to channel its youth potential into industrialisation, a process that could significantly boost the continent’s economic growth. With around 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, industrialisation is more than an economic ambition. It is a path to creating jobs, nurturing skills, and building sustainable livelihoods for the next generation. However, for Africa’s young people to drive this transformation, the economic, social, and political systems must be supportive, adaptable, and inclusive.
Industrialisation promises to create a range of economic opportunities for young Africans. It can generate jobs across various sectors, from manufacturing and technology to agriculture and services, offering employment and a chance to gain specialised skills. For example, as industries grow, they demand workers skilled in technical and vocational fields, opening doors for young people to learn and apply new abilities. These skills are essential for African economies to diversify beyond agriculture and resource extraction, which many countries still rely on heavily. Moreover, industrialisation brings about entrepreneurial opportunities. Africa’s youthful population is dynamic and innovative, with many young entrepreneurs keen on creating businesses that serve industrial needs through technology, renewable energy, or agribusiness. This entrepreneurial spirit is vital in driving Africa’s industrial growth if young people receive support accessing capital, markets, and mentoring networks.
Despite these opportunities, current economic systems present significant barriers to youth-led economic development. Access to financing remains a primary challenge for young entrepreneurs, who often struggle to secure loans and investments, especially in capital-intensive industrial sectors. Furthermore, insufficient infrastructure, such as unreliable electricity, limited internet, and inadequate transportation, hinders business growth and discourages young people from entering industrial fields. Recent initiatives, like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promise to open markets and reduce trade barriers. However, these frameworks must actively include and prioritise young entrepreneurs and workers to be effective.
Educational and social systems also play a vital role in preparing youth for an industrialised future. Currently, Africa’s education systems often do not align with the skills required in industrial sectors, leaving a gap between young people’s skills and those in demand. Technical and vocational training, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, and digital literacy are crucial areas where reform is needed to equip young Africans for roles in a growing industrial economy. Moreover, gender inclusivity must be prioritised, ensuring young women have equal access to industrial training and employment, creating a more balanced and resilient workforce. On the political front, youth involvement in policy-making is essential for shaping an economic growth agenda that benefits the young. Governments must create transparent, supportive policies that ease business operations, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and incorporate youth voices. The African Union’s Agenda 2063 and other development plans aim for an industrialised, self-sufficient Africa, but these policies must involve young leaders and stakeholders to succeed.
Despite the challenges, success stories across the continent show that young Africans already contribute to economic development. From renewable energy startups in Kenya to tech manufacturing in Nigeria, young entrepreneurs are paving the way for a future in which industry and innovation drive Africa’s economy.
Creating a supportive environment for young people is critical for Africa to realise its industrial dreams. By removing barriers and empowering youth with the necessary skills, financing, and policy support, Africa can build an industrialised future that offers prosperity and opportunity for future generations.
