from MARIA MACHARIA in Nairobi, Kenya
Kenya Bureau
NAIROBI, (CAJ News) – AFRICAN youth are the most optimistic they have been since the Covid-19 pandemic, but they are demanding governments match that confidence with jobs, cleaner governance, greater political inclusion and democratic systems better suited to the continent’s realities.
These are among the findings of the 2026 African Youth Survey, released on Tuesday by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation. Conducted by PSB Insights, the study interviewed 4 901 people aged between 18 and 24 across 16 African countries in March, making it the largest edition of the survey since its launch in 2020.
Across the eight countries surveyed in every edition, 47 percent of respondents believe their country is moving in the right direction, up from 30 percent in 2024.
Confidence in national economies also rose sharply, with 45 percent expressing optimism compared to 26 percent two years ago. Some 43 percent believe Africa as a whole is heading in the right direction.
Despite the improving outlook, economic hardship remains the dominant concern.
The rising cost of living was identified as the single biggest issue affecting the continent over the past five years, ahead of political instability, infectious diseases and technological change.
Young Africans ranked the creation of well-paying jobs as the continent’s most urgent priority, followed closely by reducing government corruption.
Support for entrepreneurship also increased, with more respondents calling for easier conditions to start businesses.
The survey found strong backing for democracy, with 73 percent saying it is preferable to any other form of government.
However, 56 percent believe Western-style democracy does not adequately reflect African realities and favour the development of an African model that combines democratic principles with effective governance and national stability.
Ivor Ichikowitz, founder and commissioner of the African Youth Survey, said the growing optimism should not be mistaken for satisfaction.
“Young Africans still believe in this continent, but they are demanding delivery rather than promises,” he said.
“They want jobs, accountable leadership, business opportunities, safety and a meaningful voice in shaping their future.”
The findings also indicate a pragmatic approach to international relations. More than half of respondents said their countries should prioritise partnerships that deliver tangible economic benefits such as trade, investment and infrastructure, regardless of political systems.
Infrastructure investment, protection of natural resources and technology transfer ranked among the most valued qualities in foreign partners.
The United States and China remain the continent’s most influential external powers, although China enjoys more favourable perceptions among respondents who recognise its influence.
Security also featured prominently in the survey.
While 70 percent said they feel safe in their countries, unemployment and poverty were viewed as the greatest threats to community safety, ahead of crime, corruption and substance abuse.
Most respondents identified youth employment as governments’ top security priority.
The survey revealed significant differences across the continent. Rwanda recorded the highest confidence in national direction, while Somalia emerged as one of the biggest positive surprises, with strong optimism about its economy and future.
Ghana, Ethiopia and Zambia registered notable improvements since 2024. By contrast, Kenya, South Africa, Mozambique, Chad and Nigeria ranked among the most pessimistic regarding national direction, economic prospects and security.
– CAJ News