The king of Zanku, Zlatan, returns once more to delight his royal subjects with infectious rhythms in Gimme Your Love, enlisting Nigerian Hip-Hop legend Olamide to feature on this exciting track.

READ ALSO: New Music Friday Features Wizkid’s Morayo among others Topping Charts

Born Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, Zlatan Ibile has made a name for himself in the Nigerian music industry as a rapper, singer, songwriter, musician, and dancer. He is also the CEO and founder of Zanku Records.

Beyond music, Zlatan has ventured into the fashion industry, launching his clothing line, ZTTW. This street fashion brand caters to urban audiences, blending modern trends with a touch of his personal style. The brand holds significant personal value for Zlatan, reflecting his journey from the streets to building a multi-million-dollar business aimed at empowering others who aspire to follow in his footsteps.

Teni and Skiibii collaborate on Jostimilo, a vibrant track for the devoted fans of Afrobeats. The two powerhouses combine their distinctive sounds and established positions in the music world, offering a tune for us all to appreciate and celebrate their artistic gifts.

Vector Tha Viper adds to his illustrious discography with A Lover Boy PTSD, his sixth studio album. Featuring a stellar lineup of artists such as Falz, Niniola, Bella Shmurda, Tiwa Savage, Majeeed, Emmsong, Jossman, Top Adlerman, Scridge, and Shado Chris, this album promises an emotional journey. It explores the V.E.C state of mind, delving into the complexities of life’s experiences, reflecting on the aftermath of his personal journey and triumphs.

Other notable releases this week include:

• Ayo Maff & Zerry DL – Find Money

• Zaiam – Move & Trips

• Emaem – A Star Now

• TR1GGA – FA TA SI

• Guchi, Odumodublvck & Masterkraft – Composure

• Bayanni & Zerry DL – For Here

• YKB – Omobanke

• Oladapo – With The Most & Friends (Vol.1)

Africa’s music industry is a constantly developing and exciting space that continues to inspire and bring joy to music lovers all over the world. The continent’s artists are constantly innovating and expanding the possibilities of music, with each new release, they show their ability to reshape the future of global music industries.

The post New Music Friday: New Releases You Can’t Miss appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), the global youth unemployment rate reached 13.6% in 2023, over three times higher than the rate for adults. This crisis is driven by factors such as the misalignment between educational systems and labour market needs, the disruption of traditional industries, and the rising impact of automation.

Digitalisation—the integration of digital technologies across industries—is transforming the employment landscape by creating new sectors and job opportunities. Areas such as e-commerce, digital marketing, artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and remote work are experiencing growing demand for digitally skilled workers. The World Economic Forum (WEF) estimates that by 2025, 149 million new technology-related jobs will emerge globally.

READ ALSO: The Digitalisation of Cross-Border Logistics

Digital Skills and Training Opportunities

Digital platforms are revolutionising access to education and training. Online learning tools like Coursera, Udemy, and edX provide affordable courses on topics ranging from coding and digital marketing to data analysis and graphic design. This democratisation of knowledge enables young people from diverse backgrounds to acquire skills in demand, thereby increasing their chances of entering high-paying, tech-driven careers.

Furthermore, initiatives such as Microsoft’s YouthSpark and Google’s Digital Skills for Africa are equipping young people with essential digital tools to succeed in an increasingly tech-oriented economy. These programmes are particularly impactful in regions with limited local job opportunities, opening doors for young individuals to thrive in global markets.

Entrepreneurship and the Gig Economy

Digitalisation has spurred the growth of the gig economy, offering young people unprecedented access to freelance and entrepreneurial opportunities. Platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer enable individuals to provide services ranging from virtual assistance to app development and content creation to a global audience.

Moreover, the digital economy has lowered the barriers for young entrepreneurs to establish startups. The rise of fintech, health-tech, edtech, and agri-tech underscores the role of innovation in addressing local and global challenges. By leveraging mobile technologies, young innovators are tackling issues in healthcare, education, agriculture, and finance, often scaling their solutions to create jobs for others. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), the digital economy could contribute $180 billion to Africa’s GDP by 2025, with youth playing a critical role in driving this growth.

Building a Supportive Ecosystem

While digitalisation offers enormous potential, governments, educational institutions, and private-sector actors must work collaboratively to ensure young people are equipped to seize these opportunities. Key actions include:

• Investing in Digital Infrastructure: Governments must expand internet access and improve digital connectivity, ensuring inclusivity in the digital economy.

• Reforming Education Systems: Schools and universities should prioritise digital literacy, coding, and other relevant skills while aligning curricula with labour market demands through partnerships with tech companies.

• Supporting Entrepreneurs: Financial support, mentorship, and training programmes can empower young entrepreneurs to launch and grow innovative startups.

Fostering a Digital Culture

Digitalisation is not merely about adopting new technologies—it’s about cultivating a culture of learning, innovation, and creation. By providing the right education, resources, and platforms, we can unlock opportunities for young people to excel in the digital age.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and digital-first, young individuals who embrace technology will be better positioned to secure sustainable employment or carve out their entrepreneurial paths. Governments, educators, and businesses must unite in fostering this transformation, ensuring the next generation can thrive in a dynamic global economy.

In this age of digital revolution, we hold the tools to not only combat youth unemployment but to redefine the possibilities for young people everywhere.

The post Digitalisation: An Opportunity to Combat Youth Unemployment appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

This New Music Friday, we celebrate new rhythms and tunes that inspire self-reflection and elevate moods.

Wizkid’s Sixth Studio Album: Morayo

Taking the lead is one of Africa’s musical exports, Wizkid, with his long-awaited Sixth studio album ‘Morayo.’ Dedicated to his late mother, the album serves as a deeply personal moment of reflection for the artist.

READ ALSO: New Music Friday: A Symphony of Cultures Bringing Africans Together

The album’s title, which translates to “I see joy” in the Yoruba, explores themes of resilience, love, and self-discovery. Its journey began with the release of “Piece of My Heart,” a poignant duet with Brent Faiyaz, on October 18, 2024, marking the beginning of the album’s promotion.

This reflective single provided fans with an emotional glimpse into the project. On 15 November 2024, Wizkid followed it with the lively Afrobeat song “Kese (Dance)”, adding a celebratory note to the album’s narrative.

Wizkid has described Morayo as his most personal project to date, blending Afrobeat, R&B, and experimental sounds into an innovative and heartfelt body of work.

Eric Bellinger and Burna Boy Team Up

Eric Bellinger’s For The Evening features the legendary Burna Boy, often hailed as the “African Giant.” Burna Boy’s distinctive versatility, which has earned him global acclaim, shines on this collaboration.

Listeners can expect the best of Afrobeats, Afrofusion and Hip-hop from Burna Boy, complemented by Eric Bellinger’s smooth vocals and evocative lyrics. The track promises to be a soulful yet dynamic addition to any playlist.

Nicki Minaj Returns with ‘If It’s Okay’

The Queen of Hip-hop, Nicki Minaj, makes a grand return alongside award-winning producer David Guetta and the King of Afrobeats, Davido. Their collaboration, “If It’s Okay”, is a heartfelt inquiry into personal relationships, blending genres and perspectives in an electrifying performance.

Other Top Music Releases:

This week also brings an array of exciting hip-hop, and afrobeats songs from exceptionally talented artists:

 John Legend & Tems – Ordinary People (Man – Man Remix)
 Lade & Olamide – One By One
 Cyfred, Scotts Maphuma & Young Jonn – Phuthuma (Remix)
 Oladapo & Dai Verse – Life
 T.I Blaze – Beamer
 Lifesize Teddy – Many Men
 DJ 808, Kashcoming & Pheelz – Rora
 Wondah, kemuel & Psycho YP – Bomaye
 Candy Bleakz & Bhadboi OML – Popo

Celebrating the Power of Music

This week’s New Music Friday offers something for everyone, from upbeat dance hits to heartfelt ballads. Let us celebrate the artistry of musicians across the globe. Turn up the volume and let the music transport you to a place of joy and connection.

The post New Music Friday Features Wizkid’s Morayo among others Topping Charts appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Globally, approximately 1.3 billion people—around 16% of the population—experience significant disabilities. This translates to roughly one in six people worldwide, with higher prevalence rates in developing countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 90 million people in Africa live with disabilities, the majority of whom reside in low- and middle-income nations. Despite systemic challenges, African innovators are rising to the occasion, designing groundbreaking solutions that empower people with disabilities to overcome barriers and realise their full potential.

Driving African Innovation

African innovation is rooted in a deep understanding of local needs, coupled with a spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness. Entrepreneurs across the continent are creating initiatives that address social and educational challenges, while promoting accessibility and inclusion.

READ ALSO: http://Children’s Day: Building Future Leaders

Inclusive Education

One notable example is AbleBooks by Aanuoluwa Omoleye of Nigeria. This initiative provides illustrated storybooks featuring children with disabilities as central characters, fostering representation and inclusivity in education. Targeting nursery, primary, and secondary schools, particularly in Nigeria, AbleBooks aims to create a sense of belonging for children with disabilities by promoting understanding and empathy among their peers.

Transformative Assistive Technologies

In Kenya, Roy Allela developed the Sign-IO Gloves, a groundbreaking innovation that uses sensors to translate sign language into spoken words. This technology has revolutionised communication for deaf individuals, bridging the gap between the hearing and non-hearing communities.

Meanwhile, Zambia’s APTERS organisation produces affordable mobility aids from recycled materials, such as papier-mâché chairs, standing frames, walking aids, and therapy tools. By using low-cost materials like cardboard and recycled paper, APTERS ensures that assistive devices are accessible to those in need, even in resource-constrained settings.

Fostering Inclusion

These innovations are not solely technological—they represent a broader effort to create inclusive societies. By improving accessibility, fostering skills development, and challenging negative perceptions, they empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their potential.

For instance, children in Uganda are now learning braille with Braille Bricks, an educational tool that combines play and learning, making braille literacy accessible and engaging. Similarly, AbleBooks and the Sign-IO Gloves have not only improved communication but also challenged societal attitudes towards disability.

A Call to Action

The impact of these solutions is undeniable, yet the journey toward full inclusion requires sustained effort. Africa’s innovators have shown remarkable ingenuity and resilience, but their success depends on robust support systems.

Funding, mentorship, and infrastructure development are critical to scaling these innovations and ensuring they reach the communities that need them most. Governments, private sector stakeholders, and international organisations must collaborate to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and inclusion.

Building an Inclusive Future

These stories highlight the transformative power of innovation in addressing social challenges. By investing in inclusive solutions, Africa can move closer to a future where disability is no longer seen as a barrier, but as an opportunity for creativity and progress. As we celebrate these achievements, we must also commit to supporting the innovators driving this change, ensuring that their ideas continue to empower people with disabilities across the continent.

With the right support, Africa’s vision of an inclusive society can become a reality, where every individual—regardless of ability—has the opportunity to thrive.

The post African Innovative Solutions Empowering People with Disabilities appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Wizkid’s latest single, Kese Dance

The inimitable Wizkid, often referred to as the “biggest bird,” proves yet again why he remains one of Africa’s brightest stars on the global stage. His latest single, Kese Dance, is a celebration of dance as one of humanity’s most powerful forms of expression. The track, brimming with infectious energy, offers fans yet another reason to groove.

Kese Dance is the second single leading up to Wizkid’s highly anticipated sixth studio album, Morayo, set for release on 22nd November 2024. Dedicated to his late mother, who played a pivotal role in his rise to superstardom, the album promises to be a heartfelt tribute as well as a showcase of Wizkid’s artistry.

Fans worldwide can trust the Star Boy to deliver musical excellence in these transformative times, as he continues to bridge the gap between African music and the global audience.

Next on the list is a collaboration between Ruger, the self-proclaimed “certified Yoruba demon,” and the Queen of Afrobeats, Tiwa Savage. Their joint effort, Toma Toma, arrives with all the makings of a chart-topping hit. Ruger’s versatility shines as he cements his status as a leading force in his generation, while Tiwa Savage’s unmatched charisma enhances the track’s appeal.

Kizz Daniel and Adekunle Gold reunite on Pano, a heartfelt ode to love that captures its many facets. Kizz Daniel, known for his generous collaborations, has expressed a desire to work with even more artists, ensuring that his music not only entertains but endures.

Other Notable Releases

The week also brings a wealth of collaborations and standout tracks:

• Mayorkun & Fireboy DML – Innocent
• Ladipoe, Adekunle Gold & Kel-P – Ekwe
• Peruzzi & Olamide – Jah Love
• Ric Hassani, Ne-Yo & Joeboy – Love & Romance II
• Reekado Banks – Solo
• Don Jazzy & Johnny Drille – Hard Guy Confessions
• Pa Salieu & Odumodublvck – Big Smile
• Ajebo Hustlers & Victony – Ave Maria
• Ugoccie – Ifemnacho

The global recognition of African music continues to grow, with these releases highlighting the continent’s diverse musical talent. As the genre evolves, its ability to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide remains steadfast, cementing African music as a force to be reckoned with in the international music scene.

The post New Music Friday: A Celebration of African Sounds appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

“Women have a vital role to play in peacebuilding,” says Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Liberia’s first female president and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. Research from the African Union (AU) supports this, showing that peace agreements with women’s participation are 35% more likely to endure for at least 15 years. Women bring diverse perspectives and a focus on sustainable solutions to peace processes.

Here are some inspiring women leaders shaping Africa’s peacebuilding landscape:

Leymah Gbowee (Liberia): Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 for leading a women’s movement that helped end Liberia’s civil war, Gbowee highlights the power of women’s non-violent resistance, stating, “We, the women of Liberia, are tired of war… tired that our children are used as soldiers, tired of being raped and brutalized.”

Shamim Nabuuma (Uganda): Founder and Executive Director of Chil Artificial Intelligence Lab, Nabuuma uses AI for social impact, solving pressing issues in her community and beyond with a focus on technological innovation for the greater good.

Wanuri Kahiu (Kenya): A grassroots peace activist and founder of “Peace Players International,” Kahiu uses basketball to bridge ethnic and religious divides in conflict zones. She underscores the power of youth engagement, saying, “If we invest in young people, they become a powerful tool for peacebuilding.”

Youth: The Future of Peace

Young people are not passive observers; they are active change agents, using social media and technology to promote peace, organize dialogues, and monitor human rights.

Justin Irabor (Nigeria): Founder of the “Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Peace, and Development in Africa” (YIAPDA), Irabor believes, “Young people have the energy, the passion, and the creativity to drive positive change in our communities.”

Sydney Sam (Ghana): A brand strategist and serial entrepreneur, Sam is the creator of Workspace Global, a tech-focused firm providing innovative brand communication services across Ghana and internationally.

Michael Muthiga (Kenya): Founder and CEO of Fatboy Animations, Muthiga uses animation to create impactful content, including educational videos and TV shows, which reach audiences worldwide and inspire young Africans.

Challenges and Opportunities

While many women and young people in peacebuilding initiatives lack formal education and training, investing in targeted training programs can empower them to be even more effective in conflict resolution, negotiation, and community organizing.

Access to technology is also essential for empowering women and youth. In today’s digital age, technology enables communication, information sharing, and collaboration, crucial for mobilizing support and accessing critical information. Providing these groups with digital tools and resources can significantly strengthen their peacebuilding efforts and foster a more inclusive and sustainable society.

A Future Built on Peace

Africa’s future peace depends on its women and youth. By recognizing their agency, equipping them with tools, and amplifying their voices, we can create a continent where peace is not merely a vision but a shared reality.

The post Africa’s Rising Peacemakers: Women and Youth Leading the Way appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Since its inception in 2009, BRICS has sought to promote investment opportunities among its founding members—Brazil, Russia, India, and China. The first summit took place in Yekaterinburg in 2009, and South Africa joined the bloc a year later.

Over the years, BRICS has significantly expanded its involvement in Africa. Investments and trade between BRICS nations and the continent have grown markedly. For instance, China’s trade with Africa surged from $10 billion to $190 billion within just 12 years. India has partnered with African nations to support small businesses, while Brazil and Russia have focused on Africa’s mining and energy sectors, working with both public and private entities.

The BRICS countries’ engagement in Africa is largely driven by their interest in the continent’s natural resources, vast and underdeveloped agricultural sector, and the potential for investments, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing. Africa’s burgeoning middle class, estimated at over 300 million, also presents a significant market for BRICS economies.

However, BRICS could further extend its wealth of resources to the youth of Africa, who are poised to become the next generation of leaders and key players in the global demand for skilled labour. According to the United Nations, Africa has the youngest population in the world, with 70% of sub-Saharan Africa under the age of 30. This youthful population is expected to continue growing, with over 1 billion people aged 15-35 predicted by 2063.

Given this, it is crucial for BRICS to join global efforts in investing in Africa’s youth, as they hold the key to future progress. BRICS can offer various opportunities, including access to resources, education, and platforms for meaningful participation in initiatives related to the bloc. This could involve training, employment, and collaborative projects aimed at empowering African youth economically and socially.

BRICS has already begun making strides in this direction. In 2024, the BRICS Summer School was held in South Africa, organised by the South African BRICS Youth Association in Johannesburg. The event featured South African Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, who spoke highly of the initiative and the benefits available to African youth.

Chikunga encouraged young people to focus on skills development, cultural exchange, and collaboration among BRICS nations to solidify and future-proof the alliance. She stressed the need for joint skills development, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as digital technology. She also called for collaboration between youth in BRICS and other developing countries in advancing digital innovation.

READ ALSO: Egypt and Ethiopia Join BRICS: What to Expect at the 16th Summit

Looking ahead, the 16th annual BRICS summit will be held in Kazan, Russia, from 22-24 October 2024. This summit will bring together the original BRICS members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—along with four new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. It will mark the first meeting for these new additions to the group.

As BRICS continues to evolve, its partnership with Africa is set to become even more strategic. By investing in Africa’s youth and fostering economic cooperation, BRICS can contribute to a more equitable and prosperous future for both the continent and the world.

The post BRICS and Africa: A Partnership for African Youths appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

With over 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 30, the continent has the youngest population in the world. This demographic presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it offers potential for innovation and rapid growth in social, economic, and technological sectors. On the other, it poses significant hurdles, as millions of young people require education and training to meet the demands of an increasingly competitive job market.

The World Economic Forum estimates that over one billion people globally will need to upskill by 2030 to keep pace with the evolving labour market. The rise of automation and artificial intelligence has driven a growing demand for skilled workers in areas such as technology, healthcare, and renewable energy. This highlights the need for new approaches to education and training, as traditional institutions often struggle to keep curricula relevant to modern job requirements. This mismatch between graduate skills and employer needs has prompted corporations to step in, investing heavily in education and vocational training as part of their long-term workforce strategies.

For instance, tech giants like Google and Microsoft have launched initiatives such as Google Career Certificates and Microsoft’s Skills for the Future. These programmes offer free or subsidised training in high-demand fields like data analytics, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Often located in African tech hubs such as Nigeria and South Africa, these initiatives partner with community colleges and online platforms, making them accessible to a wider audience.

In the manufacturing sector, companies like Siemens and General Electric have implemented apprenticeship schemes that combine classroom learning with practical, hands-on experience. These initiatives not only prepare workers for specific roles but also foster a culture of lifelong learning, ensuring employees remain adaptable to industry changes. Similarly, HCA Healthcare has funded nursing scholarship programmes in Africa, helping students manage financial challenges while ensuring a steady supply of qualified nurses to meet growing healthcare needs.

Many corporations are collaborating with educational institutions and non-profit organisations to enhance education and qualifications among Africa’s youth. For example, the Partnership for Youth Success (PaYS) programme, supported by various corporate sponsors, connects military service members with civilian job opportunities through training and internships, smoothing their transition into the workforce.

READ ALSO: Economic Empowerment: The Role of Microfinance in Alleviating Poverty in Africa

Corporate investment in education benefits not just individual employees but also companies themselves. A more skilled workforce leads to higher productivity, increased innovation, and enhanced competitiveness. Moreover, these investments stimulate local economies by improving residents’ skill sets, reducing unemployment, and boosting tax revenues. By actively participating in workforce development, companies enhance their public image, attract top talent, and build customer loyalty by demonstrating social responsibility.

To maximise the impact of these initiatives, it is crucial for training programmes to be aligned with real-world job requirements. Companies must engage with industry stakeholders to ensure curricula are regularly updated to reflect current trends and avoid outdated training. Furthermore, corporations should ensure opportunities are accessible to diverse populations, including underrepresented groups and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

As the world of work continues to change, corporate investment in education and vocational training will play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce. Companies that embrace this responsibility will not only safeguard their own success but also contribute to the creation of a more educated, skilled, and resilient society. By investing in education, businesses are not merely enhancing their workforce—they are laying the foundation for a prosperous future where individuals thrive, industries innovate, and economies grow.

The post Investing in the Future: Corporate Contributions to Education and Vocational Training appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

According to a 2023 UN report, Africa has the world’s largest population of young people, with over 60% of its population under the age of 25. By the end of the century, 42% of the global working-age population will be African. This presents a unique opportunity but also poses significant challenges for the continent.

One of the most pressing challenges is educating this rapidly growing young population. According to UNESCO, nearly 260 million children and adolescents worldwide are out of school, with around 100 million of them in Africa. Furthermore, 86% of 10-year-olds on the continent cannot read or comprehend simple texts.

This lack of access to quality education is a foundational issue that underpins many of Africa’s challenges, including economic development, social cohesion, and political stability.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Africa has made considerable progress. School completion rates have increased between 2000 and 2022. Primary school attendance has risen from 52% to 69%, lower secondary from 35% to 50%, and upper secondary from 23% to 33%. Notably, there have also been significant strides in girls’ education.

However, access to primary and secondary education remains uneven. Countries such as Rwanda and Ethiopia have made notable progress in enrolling more children in schools. Yet, other nations, particularly those affected by conflict or poverty, lag behind. Rural areas face the greatest disparities, with a lack of infrastructure and cultural barriers, particularly for girls, hindering educational access.

In addition to access, the quality of education is a major concern. Many African schools struggle with overcrowded classrooms, inadequate resources, and poorly trained teachers. The African Development Bank has highlighted that in some countries, a large proportion of teachers are not adequately qualified to deliver effective instruction.

Another issue is that education curricula in many African countries are often misaligned with the skills required in the modern job market. As a result, many graduates are unprepared for the workforce, contributing to high rates of youth unemployment, with many struggling to find jobs that match their qualifications.

Efforts to reform education systems are underway, with governments and organisations implementing initiatives to improve teacher training, modernise curricula, and integrate technology. UNESCO and its partners have developed indicators to help governments, donors, and UN partners address educational challenges more effectively.

The adoption of technology in education has been pivotal in bridging gaps in access and quality. E-learning platforms, mobile education apps, and digital resources are emerging as vital tools. Organisations like Plan International and UNICEF are also working to dismantle gender barriers in education by advocating for policies that support girls’ education and empower female students.

The state of primary and secondary education in Africa reflects both the continent’s challenges and its potential. As Africa strives to educate its young population, improving access to and the quality of education will be key. With concerted efforts and innovative approaches, the vision of an educated Africa can become a reality—one that not only transforms individual lives but also drives sustainable development and prosperity across the continent.

The post Bridging the Gap: Education, Development, and the Future of Africa’s Youth appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

Talents like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Brahim Diaz are transforming the narratives around African football and, by extension, the continent’s sports industry. These gifted players are proudly showcasing their skills on the international stage.

Identifying and nurturing young athletic talent is crucial for effective sports development. Studies reveal that 77% of individuals aged 30 and over who are active in sports started participating as children.

In the United States, there are approximately 60 million registered young sports participants, according to the National Council of Youth Sports. A substantial portion of the over 74 million children in the US have recently engaged in youth sports.

Africa, with the youngest population globally, has around 70% of its sub-Saharan populace under the age of 30. This demographic presents a significant opportunity for the sports sector, as young talent can be cultivated for various athletic disciplines.

To harness this potential, collaboration between governments, civil society, and the private sector is essential. Creating programmes that promote youth involvement in sports is crucial for both personal development and professional pathways.

The economic benefits are considerable, as this could generate job and entrepreneurial opportunities, ushering Africa into a new era of prosperity through the development of emerging sports talent.

The achievements of Africa’s young sports stars highlight the continent’s vast potential. Looking to the future, Africa is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the global sports landscape. By fostering youth engagement in sports, we can unlock this potential and secure a brighter future for generations to come. The time is ripe for Africa to step into the spotlight, and with the right support, we can expect to see more talented young athletes making their mark on the world stage.

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