A NEW generation of young Africans is rejecting the widespread desire to emigrate, choosing instead to fight for political and economic transformation in their home countries. While a 2024 survey by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation found that nearly 60 percent of young Africans plan to leave their countries within three years, some are determined to stay and reshape their societies, reports AFP.
From Dakar to Nairobi, Abidjan to Johannesburg, young leaders are proving they are more than a self-absorbed digital generation. They balance their studies with activism, taking on issues ranging from political instability to environmental concerns.
Nigerian student Covenant Oluwafemi Odedele has no interest in the japa trend—a Yoruba slang term for fleeing the country. The 21-year-old medical student is committed to national development, juggling long study hours with mentoring programmes to prepare classmates for the job market. ‘I just want to do all I can to help develop my country,’ he told AFP.
In Senegal, biology student Sokhna Ndeye Merry Sall is frustrated by the rising number of her compatriots risking their lives through irregular migration. Studying at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, she has endured overcrowded lecture halls and political unrest that frequently disrupts academic schedules. Despite these obstacles, she remains focused on community development, leading an initiative to clean cemeteries in her neighbourhood.
For Ivorian chemistry student Marie Elodie Yeo Guefala, the challenge is frequent power cuts that leave her laboratory in darkness. Yet, she remains committed to improving conditions for future generations.
Raising their voices for change
Beyond academics, these young Africans are actively involved in social and political issues. In South Africa, 21-year-old Palesa Molefe raises awareness about climate change through her church, while Senegal’s Sall pushes for youth engagement in governance.
But they all agree: their generation is still not being heard by those in power. ‘We still have a long way to go,’ said Odedele. Molefe wants young people to have a greater say in decision-making, advocating for increased representation in government. ‘The change I would like to bring is to ensure that the voice of youth is included in every decision-making process,’ she said.
Sall echoed the sentiment, calling for greater youth participation in institutions. With 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under 30, according to the UN, ignoring this generation is no longer an option.
A generation shaping Africa’s future
In 2024, African youth made their presence felt. They led protests in Kenya, demanded political change in Senegal, and challenged historical ruling parties like South Africa’s ANC. Geoffrey Mboya, a 24-year-old social sciences student in Kenya, participated in demonstrations and has ambitions to become a lawmaker. ‘Young people in Kenya are rising up, uniting across political and ethnic lines,’ he told AFP.
For Nigeria’s Odedele, Gen Z is not waiting for permission to lead. ‘We are a bold generation that believes the world is there to be conquered by us,’ he said.
Across the continent, young Africans are proving they are more than just the future—they are the present, ready to reshape governance, economy, and society. By choosing to stay and fight for change, they are redefining Africa’s trajectory, one step at a time.
