NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA: A TRAILBLAZER IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a Nigerian economist and international development expert, made history as the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO). Her journey exemplifies her unwavering dedication to economic progress and her commitment to empowering women and girls.

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Born in 1954 in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State, Nigeria, Okonjo-Iweala’s academic excellence led her to Harvard University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in economics. She later completed her PhD in regional economics and development at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Okonjo-Iweala’s illustrious career spans more than three decades, with leadership roles at institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). As Nigeria’s Finance Minister (2003–2006 and 2011–2015), she spearheaded key reforms, including negotiating a historic debt relief deal with the Paris Club that erased $30 billion of Nigeria’s debt, implementing a fiscal rule to stabilise macroeconomic volatility, and introducing greater transparency by publishing government revenue allocations.

Her tenure also saw the launch of the Sovereign Wealth Fund and landmark initiatives such as the “Excess Crude Account,” which helped stabilise Nigeria’s economy. She was instrumental in securing Nigeria’s first sovereign credit rating and introduced innovative programs like the Growing Girls and Women in Nigeria Programme (GWIN) and the Youth Enterprise with Innovation Programme (YouWIN), which created thousands of jobs and empowered women.

Appointed as the WTO’s Director-General in 2021, Okonjo-Iweala has championed trade as a driver of economic development and poverty reduction. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was pivotal, including launching the WTO’s COVID-19 Vaccine Trade Initiative. In November 2024, she was unanimously reappointed for a second term, reflecting global recognition of her vision and accomplishments.

AMINA MOHAMMED: A CHAMPION OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Amina Mohammed, a Nigerian diplomat and politician, has devoted her career to promoting sustainable development and gender equality. Her efforts reflect her unwavering commitment to creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

Born in 1961 in Gombe State, Nigeria, Mohammed pursued a degree in geography at the University of Reading and later earned a master’s degree in international development. Her extensive career includes leadership roles with the United Nations (UN) and the African Union (AU).

As Nigeria’s Minister of Environment from 2015 to 2017, Mohammed implemented significant reforms, including developing a national climate change policy and introducing a green bond programme to fund environmental projects. She also represented Nigeria on the AU’s Reform Steering Committee, chaired by Paul Kagame.

Since 2017, Mohammed has served as Deputy Secretary-General of the UN, where she has led efforts to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and gender equality. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was instrumental in launching the UN’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Plan, which focused on reducing inequalities and supporting vulnerable populations.

The stories of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Amina Mohammed exemplify the power of African women to drive progress and inspire future generations. Their achievements revive hope for millions of Africans striving for excellence in their respective fields.

However, it is crucial to recognise the challenges African women continue to face, including limited access to education, economic opportunities, and systemic discrimination. Despite these obstacles, African women remain a formidable force for change, advancing innovation, sustainable development, and community empowerment.

By celebrating their achievements and addressing barriers to equality, Africa can unlock the full potential of its women, paving the way for a future of inclusive growth and global impact. The stories of Okonjo-Iweala and Mohammed remind us of the transformative power of empowered women and the importance of supporting their rise to leadership.

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Fresh from the studio, the rising star of Nigerian hip-hop, Bkay EastGaad, has released his socially conscious track Reason Am. The song seeks to uplift Nigerians as they navigate challenging times, delivering a message of resilience and hope. This follows the success of his viral hit, Good Boys Anthem, a track that honours men who uphold integrity, treat women with respect and positively contribute to society.

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

The ‘001 of African music, Davido, returns with a thrilling new record, Funds, featuring the talented Odumodublvck and Chike. Dedicated to women around the world, the song explores themes of love and indulgence as the artists declare their willingness to lavish their wealth on the one who completes them. The track also pays homage to African musical heritage by sampling Brenda Fassie’s iconic 1997 classic, Vuli Ndlela, showcasing Davido’s respect for the legends who paved the way.

Adding to the excitement is the collaboration between American star Khalid and Nigeria’s ‘Sabi girl’, Ayra Starr. Their duet, Make It Up To You, is a heartfelt anthem for lovers striving to overcome challenges and sustain their relationships. The track’s soulful melodies and poignant lyrics resonate deeply with audiences.

Other notable releases include:

• Blaqbonez, Ayo Maff & Bella Shmurda – Louder
• Young Jonn – Ten Times
• Pheelz, Olamide, Poco Lee & DJ YK Mule – 5am In Ojo
• Babyboy AV, Ckay & Victony – Obianuju
• Ayanfe & Fireboy DML – Laba Laba
• DJ Tunez, Wande Coal & Libianca – Promiscuous
• Tekno – Pounds & Dollars
• Fola & Bella Shmurda – Who Does That
• Skepta & Lex Luger – Alpha Omega
• 1da Banton – Baby Oku
• Lyta & Bhadboi OML – Adura Agba

Africa’s thriving music scene continues to shape the global cultural landscape, with its groundbreaking artists setting the stage for years of dominance. From innovative sounds to heartfelt storytelling, the continent’s musicians are proving that the future of music is undeniably African.

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South Africa: A Leading Example in Pension Reform

South Africa is widely regarded as a leader in Africa’s pension landscape, boasting a well-established system that integrates public and private sector contributions. The South African Pension Fund, supported by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and various private retirement funds, ensures that over 90% of formal-sector employees are enrolled in retirement savings plans. Additionally, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) administers a non-contributory Old Age Grant, providing cash support to elderly individuals unable to sustain themselves financially.

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Botswana: Progressive and Inclusive Systems

Botswana’s pension system has earned recognition for its effectiveness and inclusivity. The National Pension Scheme (NPS) guarantees coverage for formal-sector workers through a robust framework. The Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund (BPOPF), the country’s largest pension scheme, serves government employees. To address the needs of citizens outside the formal sector, Botswana has introduced a Voluntary Pension Fund, enabling individuals to make optional contributions.

Kenya: Combining Social Security and Private Contributions

Kenya has made significant progress in enhancing its pension system by combining social security programmes with private contributions. The National Social Security Fund (NSSF), a mandatory scheme for all employed citizens, has undergone recent reforms to improve its coverage and ensure sustainability. The private pension market in Kenya has also experienced considerable growth, with financial institutions offering diverse retirement savings plans to complement the NSSF.

Mauritius: Social Insurance System with a Solid Foundation

Mauritius boasts a highly developed social security scheme that covers a large segment of the population, including informal-sector workers. The National Pensions Act governs an extensive social insurance system, which provides pensions to citizens upon reaching retirement age, provided they have made sufficient contributions during their working lives. This system not only ensures basic support for retirees but also employs strategic investments to guarantee the long-term sustainability of the national pension fund.

Ghana: Innovative Solutions for Retirement Savings

Ghana’s pension system stands out as another success story on the continent. In 2008, the country enacted the National Pensions Act, introducing a three-tier pension system: basic, occupational, and voluntary contributions. The first tier provides a foundational pension to retirees, while the second and third tiers encourage occupational and personal savings. The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) manages Ghana’s public pension funds. Moreover, Ghana has pioneered mobile money-based systems, enabling workers without traditional bank accounts to contribute to pension funds seamlessly.

Namibia: A Model for Social Insurance and Investments

Namibia has established a pension system centred on a social insurance model that primarily covers formal-sector employees. The Namibia National Social Security Fund (NSSCF) ensures that formal-sector workers and government employees are adequately protected. Namibia has also prioritised local investment strategies, which not only foster economic growth but also support the sustainability of its pension funds.

While Africa continues to face challenges in developing comprehensive pension systems for all, countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Mauritius, Ghana, and Namibia serve as shining examples. Their diverse approaches highlight the continent’s adaptability and commitment to creating inclusive, sustainable, and supportive structures for their elderly populations. These systems underscore the progress being made, even in the face of significant socio-economic hurdles.

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Currently, over 20% of the 8,200 police officers serving in 17 UN regional offices and field operations are women. This milestone reflects the achievements of the United Nations Police (UNPOL) in meeting the gender parity goals set by the UN Secretary-General for 2025.

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Through innovative approaches to networking, relationship building, and integrating women’s perspectives, UNPOL female officers significantly enhance the operational performance of peacekeeping missions. Their contributions are instrumental in ensuring the missions are more inclusive, culturally sensitive, and effective.

Women recruited from military and police forces currently participate in 12 UN peacekeeping missions worldwide, with six based in Africa and three in the Middle East.

The formal involvement of women in UN peacekeeping missions began in 1957. However, a pivotal moment came in 2007 when India deployed the first all-female, highly skilled, and well-equipped Formed Police Unit to Liberia. This landmark deployment underscored the vital role women play in peacekeeping and marked a turning point in their representation.

Women peacekeepers are often seen as particularly well-suited to humanitarian work, especially in fostering communication with civilian women and children. This perception has led to a gradual but significant increase in their participation in peacekeeping missions over time.

Between 1957 and 1989, only 20 uniformed women participated in peacekeeping missions. By September 2023, this number had risen to 6,200. However, women remain underrepresented in military contingents, comprising less than 10% of the more than 70,000 uniformed peacekeepers, which include over 62,000 servicemen.

Top African Contributors to Female UN Peacekeepers

As of August 2024, the ten African nations contributing the highest number of female police officers to UN peacekeeping deployments are:

1. Rwanda – 678

2. Ghana – 428

3. Senegal – 210

4. Ethiopia – 206

5. Zambia – 225

6. South Africa – 221

7. Cameroon – 121

8. Tanzania – 189

9. Malawi – 106

10. Egypt – 96

The distinct contributions of female peacekeepers are increasingly recognised, highlighting their unique capacity to address challenges in peacekeeping and foster trust within communities.

A Vision for the Future

The rising acknowledgment of women’s contributions to peacekeeping efforts is a step towards a more equitable future. With continued empowerment of African women, the international community can look forward to even greater achievements in UN peacekeeping and beyond.

The post African Women in UN Peacekeeping: Contributions to Gender Parity appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

These trailblazers are not only shaping the continent’s future but also exporting African ingenuity to the world. Their stories form a tapestry of resilience, creativity, and ambition—a movement that breaks barriers, transcends borders, and redefines possibilities.

A 2024 report by the African Union Commission and the OECD highlights a critical gap: across 15 African countries, only 9% of youth aged 15–24 possess basic computer skills. Similarly, only 10% of the male workforce and 7% of the female workforce have these competencies. Enhancing digital literacy and technical expertise is essential for Africa to remain competitive in the global economy and to drive sustainable growth.

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By 2030, young Africans are projected to constitute 42% of the global youth population and 75% of those under 35 within Africa. While this demographic boom presents an immense opportunity for economic growth, innovation, and job creation, it also underscores the pronounced skills gap in STEM fields—a challenge that must be addressed urgently.

To meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in engineering, healthcare, IT, and other vital sectors, Africa will require an additional 23 million STEM graduates by 2030 to fill key roles.

From Baobab Roots to Silicon Heights

African innovators in STEM draw inspiration from the continent’s rich traditions and inherent resilience. Like the sturdy baobab tree, their ideas are deeply rooted in African soil, yet their branches extend globally.

The late Dr Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmentalist and biologist, epitomised this ethos by blending scientific principles with grassroots activism. Her efforts earned Africa its first Nobel Peace Prize and continue to inspire scientists addressing climate change through green technology innovations.

In Ethiopia, Dr Segenet Kelemu, a molecular plant pathologist, has revolutionised agricultural science. As the first African woman to lead the International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), she has tackled food insecurity by promoting eco-friendly pest control solutions, influencing agricultural research worldwide.

Guiding the Future

Across the continent, STEM icons illuminate the path for a new generation of thinkers and creators. Silas Adekunle, the Nigerian robotics engineer behind the world’s first gaming robot, is one such beacon. His company, Reach Robotics, redefined the intersection of robotics and entertainment, capturing the interest of investors globally.

In Rwanda, Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation, is steering the nation towards a digital renaissance. Initiatives like the Kigali Innovation City showcase Rwanda’s transformation into a technological hub, exemplifying how policy and science can synergise to drive economic growth.

Bridges of Knowledge

Africa’s STEM pioneers are bridge-builders, connecting local challenges to global opportunities. Dr Cheick Modibo Diarra, a Malian astrophysicist and former NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory engineer, exemplifies this spirit. His work on interplanetary missions, such as the Mars Pathfinder, inspires African youth to view the universe as a canvas for exploration. After his tenure at NASA, he returned to Africa to champion education and technology, proving that global impact and local development can coexist.

Similarly, in healthcare, Dr Ola Brown, founder of Flying Doctors Nigeria, is closing critical healthcare gaps through aviation. Her air ambulance services dramatically reduce medical response times in remote areas, blending engineering, logistics, and medicine to save lives and foster global health-tech partnerships.

Mining Africa’s STEM Potential

Africa’s digital revolution is driven by innovators who see data as the new frontier of wealth creation. Dr Nneile Nkholise, a South African mechanical engineer, has harnessed data in creating 3D-printed prosthetics through her company, iMed Tech. Her work addresses healthcare infrastructure challenges, enhancing lives and showcasing the potential of digital fabrication technologies on the continent.

Dr Rebecca Enonchong, a Cameroonian tech entrepreneur, further demonstrates how data can propel inclusive growth. Her company, AppsTech, has delivered enterprise software solutions to over 50 countries, affirming Africa’s capability to export technological expertise.

STEM Stars

Mentorship and education are twin engines propelling African STEM leaders onto the global stage. Initiatives such as Africa Code Week, supported by global partners, have trained over 10 million young Africans in coding and programming since 2015. These programmes ensure that the brilliance of STEM luminaries continues to inspire aspiring innovators.

For example, Ghana’s Ivy Barley founded Developers in Vogue to empower African women with tech skills, addressing gender disparity in STEM. Her work enables a generation of women to shatter glass ceilings with algorithms and code.

Africa must invest in its STEM ecosystem to sustain this wave of innovation. Currently, the continent contributes less than 1% of global scientific research output, according to UNESCO. This stark statistic underscores the urgent need for greater funding and institutional support. Initiatives such as the African Union’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa 2024 (STISA-2024) aim to address this gap, but progress requires concerted efforts from governments, private sectors, and international partners.

Writing the Next Chapter

The story of African icons in STEM is one of resilience, ingenuity, and boundless potential. By addressing local challenges with solutions of global relevance, they are shaping a future where African innovation takes centre stage in tackling humanity’s greatest problems. The baobab of African STEM has taken root, and its branches will only grow stronger, shading the world with the promise of progress.

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According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the total number of passengers carried on scheduled services rose to 2.3 billion in 2021, a 28.1% increase compared to the previous year. Similarly, the number of departures increased to 24.2 million in 2021, representing a 19.2% growth.

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For African nations, robust air forces equipped with state-of-the-art aircraft and substantial logistical support are not only critical military assets but also essential for ensuring national security, economic stability, and regional influence.

Air Power and National Defence

A well-equipped air force serves as one of the primary lines of defence against external threats, safeguarding a nation’s security and territorial integrity. The availability of diverse aircraft enhances combat readiness, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, enabling swift responses to potential threats.

Beyond defence, maintaining control over airspace is vital for fostering economic growth. Air power protects critical infrastructure such as oil installations, pipelines, and trade routes, ensuring their security and facilitating uninterrupted operations.

By investing in aviation infrastructure, including maintenance facilities, repair centres, and training academies, African nations can position themselves as regional hubs for aerospace services, contributing to economic development and technological advancement.

African Air Forces: A Snapshot

According to Global Firepower, the African nations with the most extensive air force logistics include:

Egypt

Military Aircraft Fleet: 1,080

Fighter Fleet: 238

Helicopter Fleet: 338

Algeria

Military Aircraft Fleet: 605

Fighter Fleet: 102

Helicopter Fleet: 298

Angola

Military Aircraft Fleet: 297

Fighter Fleet: 57

Helicopter Fleet: 116

Morocco

Military Aircraft Fleet: 255

Fighter Fleet: 83

Helicopter Fleet: 70

South Africa

Military Aircraft Fleet: 194

Fighter Fleet: 2

Helicopter Fleet: 91

Sudan

Military Aircraft Fleet: 170

Fighter Fleet: 45

Helicopter Fleet: 64

Kenya

Military Aircraft Fleet: 158

Fighter Fleet: 17

Helicopter Fleet: 87

Tunisia

Military Aircraft Fleet: 155

Fighter Fleet: 10

Helicopter Fleet: 101

Nigeria

Military Aircraft Fleet: 147

Fighter Fleet: 14

Helicopter Fleet: 53

Libya

Military Aircraft Fleet: 132

Fighter Fleet: 17

Helicopter Fleet: 32

Transforming the Aviation Sector

Africa’s aviation sector is rapidly evolving, creating a more dynamic and advanced air travel and defence landscape. Strategic investments in infrastructure, training programmes, and technological innovation are enabling African nations to leverage air power for economic growth, improved connectivity, and enhanced global influence.

A Promising Future

The future of African aviation shines brightly. With its rising aerial capabilities, the continent is poised to reshape the geopolitical landscape, asserting itself as a key player on the global stage. This new era of African air power symbolises not just a commitment to security but also a vision for prosperity and progress.

The post The Future of African Aviation: Expanding Aerial Capabilities and Influence appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

A rapidly expanding digital infrastructure supports this growth. Over the past decade, internet penetration in Africa has surged, with 43% of the online population as of 2023, up from just 10% in 2010. Mobile phone usage, particularly smartphones, has been critical in bridging connectivity gaps, enabling creators to access new markets and audiences.

READ ALSO: The rise of African music stars and their global impact

Digital Platforms are The Game-Changer for Creatives

Digital platforms have revolutionised how African creatives operate, providing them with unprecedented opportunities to showcase their talent. For instance, music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Boomplay, and Audiomack have amplified the reach of African artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage, who now enjoy global acclaim.

The music industry in Africa is thriving, with digital streaming revenues forecasted to exceed $500 million by 2025, up from $100 million in 2017. Similarly, African filmmakers are making waves on platforms like Netflix, with productions such as Blood & Water and Queen Sono gaining international recognition.

The Fashion Industry: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

African fashion is undergoing a renaissance, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design sensibilities. Designers like Nigeria’s Lisa Folawiyo and South Africa’s Thebe Magugu have achieved global acclaim, showcasing African aesthetics on international runways.

The fashion industry is not just about style; it is a significant economic contributor. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), Africa’s textile and apparel market is valued at $31 billion and is projected to double by 2025. Digital platforms have also enabled African fashion brands to reach global audiences, leveraging e-commerce and social media to drive sales and build brand visibility.

Gaming: Africa’s Next Big Digital Frontier

Gaming is emerging as a new growth sector in Africa’s digital economy. With a youthful population—60% of Africans are under the age of 25—video gaming is poised for exponential growth. The African video game market, valued at $590 million in 2022, is expected to surpass $1 billion by 2025.

Local developers are creating culturally resonant games that appeal to African and global audiences alike. Titles such as Aurion: Legacy of the Kori-Odan from Cameroon showcase African mythology, while South Africa’s gaming industry is exploring opportunities in virtual reality and esports.

Challenges Facing African Creatives

While the potential is immense, African creatives face significant challenges. Limited access to funding, inadequate infrastructure, and piracy hinder growth. The need for more reliable internet in rural areas remains a bottleneck for many aspiring creators.

Nonetheless, initiatives such as the African Export-Import Bank’s $500 million Creative Industry Support Fund are addressing these challenges by providing financing to creatives and SMEs. Additionally, governments across Africa are increasingly recognising the creative economy as a strategic sector, introducing policies and investments to spur its growth.

The Future for African Creatives

African creatives are not just participants in the digital economy—they are redefining it. Through innovation, resilience, and a commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage, they are positioning Africa as a global creative powerhouse.

For Africa to fully unlock its creative potential, sustained investment in digital infrastructure, education, and intellectual property rights is essential. With the right support, African creatives will continue to break barriers, redefine global perceptions, and drive economic transformation.

The post African Creatives Are Redefining the Digital Economy 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.

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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.

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Stories shape the world we inhabit, defining its course and evolution. For young Africans, their narratives hold particular importance in this age of technological advancements and global interconnectedness. They reflect not only individual triumphs but also the collective potential of a continent on the brink of transformation.

READ ALSO:http://Africa’s Young Voices are Driving Reforms

According to the African Youth Survey 2024, Africa is undergoing remarkable change, with its population projected to nearly double to 2.5 billion within the next 25 years. This demographic shift will profoundly influence the continent’s nations and reshape its global relations. While birth rates decline in wealthier regions, Africa’s high birth rate drives the youngest and fastest-growing population globally. Currently, 70% of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population is under 30 years of age, making it a hub of youthful dynamism.

Expressing his optimism about Africa’s future, Samuel Kugbiyi—a seasoned voice-over artist, actor, and theatre company owner—highlighted the transformative role of African youth. He believes they will serve as ambassadors of the continent, showcasing its rich stories and cultural heritage to the world.

Kugbiyi has long been passionate about bringing African narratives to a global audience. From an early age, he sought to capture the journeys and experiences of African youth, exploring the forces that mould them into world changers. Over the years, his diverse endeavours have earned him widespread recognition and acclaim.

His career reflects a broader trend among African storytellers who aspire to share the continent’s rich and varied narratives on the global stage. From his early performances in the musical Tafiya Lafiya to his upcoming role in the Cartoon Network and Max-backed series Iyanu: Child of Wonder, set for release in 2025, Kugbiyi exemplifies the potential of African youth to thrive in the global creative economy. His dedication to crafting compelling, authentic African stories resonates strongly in a world eager for diverse perspectives.

The motivations driving young Africans to spearhead the continent’s development are manifold, shaped by family, political, and economic factors. Yet, rather than yielding to disillusionment, many view these challenges as opportunities for innovation and growth. This resilient outlook is encapsulated by the term “Afro-Optimism,” which has gained traction in recent years.

African youth are leveraging the technological boom to connect, create, and innovate. The survey notes that two-thirds of young Africans now use smartphones for three or more hours daily. With mobile data becoming increasingly affordable, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X are empowering a generation to amplify their voices and expand their horizons.

This generation paints a cautiously optimistic picture of the future. Many are confident in their ability to establish businesses, pursue opportunities abroad, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Despite venturing overseas, they remain actively involved in Africa’s development, bridging global experiences with local impact.

Africa’s future brims with promise, driven by the creativity, resilience, and optimism of its young people. By dreaming, innovating, and inspiring, this extraordinary generation is crafting a new chapter in the continent’s history. As they continue to rise, the world will witness the full breadth of their potential—a vibrant era of African narratives that redefines perceptions and shapes a brighter tomorrow.

The post The Rise of Young African Storytellers: A New Era of African Narratives appeared first on African Leadership Magazine.

The United Nations estimates that Africa’s population will reach 1.5 billion by 2030, placing significant pressure on transport systems, communication networks, and energy supplies. According to the African Development Bank (AfDB), the continent requires an estimated $130–$170 billion annually in infrastructure financing.

READ ALSO: http://Africa’s infrastructure revolution: Investments shaping the Future of the Continent

Transportation remains one of the most visible and pressing infrastructure challenges. Cities like Lagos, Nairobi, and Cairo, with their large populations, struggle with congestion, inefficiency, and poor-quality roads.

In Lagos, home to over 20 million people, the absence of a comprehensive public transport network results in daily traffic jams and long commutes. In response, the state government introduced the Lagos Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in 2008. This affordable and efficient system has improved mobility for millions, addressing the city’s growing transportation demands.

Cities like Addis Ababa in Ethiopia have invested in light rail systems. Launched in 2015, the city’s $475 million light rail project—the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa—has significantly enhanced mobility, cutting commute times and reducing congestion. However, challenges persist, particularly in maintaining and expanding the system to cover more areas.

The Digital Revolution and Communication Infrastructure

The digital revolution offers Africa the potential to transform its economies, education systems, and governance. However, communication infrastructure remains patchy, with slow internet speeds, limited broadband coverage, and unreliable mobile networks.

In Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, internet access is both limited and costly. To address this, governments and private enterprises are investing in expanding digital infrastructure.

Kenya’s “National Optic Fibre Backbone Project” connects rural and urban areas with high-speed internet, boosting education and economic activity. Also, Kenya’s M-Pesa platform has revolutionised financial inclusion, enabling millions of Africans to access banking services via their phones. Its success has inspired similar initiatives in countries like Ghana and Tanzania, improving financial transactions for previously unbanked populations.

Bridging the Power Gap

Energy deficits present another major hurdle for African cities. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), over 600 million Africans lack access to electricity. In Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, energy shortages impede growth. The Nigerian government is exploring private sector participation to address this, focusing on building and maintaining power plants, improving distribution, and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

Renewable energy is gaining traction as a sustainable solution. In Kenya, the government has embraced a “green energy” agenda, investing in large-scale geothermal and wind projects. Meanwhile, South Africa’s renewable energy program is widely considered a success, with the country increasing its renewable energy share of the electricity mix to over 20%. Off-grid solar initiatives in Uganda and Zambia have empowered households and businesses, unlocking economic potential in previously underserved areas.

In conclusion, while African cities face significant infrastructure deficits, there is a growing momentum towards finding innovative solutions that can address transportation, communication, and energy challenges. By embracing smart technologies, strengthening partnerships, and prioritizing sustainability, African cities have the potential to leapfrog traditional development models and create better, sustainable urban spaces for future generations.

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