By Ezekiel David
There is growing discontent and a yearning for change among young Africans, according to a recent survey conducted across 16 countries.
Nearly 60% of respondents between the ages of 18 and 24 stated that they would like to leave their nations and that corruption is the biggest barrier to advancement. The fact that 83% of young Africans are worried about corruption and 62% think their governments are not doing enough to solve the problem only serves to reinforce this sentiment.
According to the Ichikowitz Family Foundation survey, about 58% of young Africans say they would think about leaving their country in the next three years.
Corruption, concerns about foreign influence, and a lack of job prospects are some of the reasons for their desire to flee the perceived shortcomings of their own countries.
The survey highlighted a widespread concern about corruption across various sectors, including government, businesses, and law enforcement.
Young Africans expressed a desire for stronger sanctions against corrupt officials, including bans from public office. The survey also revealed a sense of disillusionment with the direction of Africa, with 55% believing the continent is headed in the wrong direction.
There was a slight increase in “Afro-optimism” compared to the 2022 survey, with 37% expressing optimism about the future.
When it came to possible emigration destinations, North America was the most popular option, followed by Western Europe. Concerns about foreign influence were also brought to light by the study; 72% of young Africans expressed anxiety that foreign corporations would take advantage of their nations and that their natural resources would be mined and sold at the expense of the populace.
In spite of these concerns, there was a positive view of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which has funded massive infrastructure projects across the continent, with 82% of young Africans having positive views. Similarly, 79% viewed the influence of the United States positively, with 41% specifically mentioning the country’s provision of loans and economic support.
Perceptions of Russian influence, which has significantly expanded in various countries, were also investigated in the poll. Although the supply of grain and fertiliser by Russia contributed to the favourable opinion of more than half of the respondents, a sizeable portion (30%) saw Russian influence unfavourably, noting its role in conflicts and possible harmful effects on African nations.
(Source: Al Jazeera)
