Investing in Africa’s Youth: A Digital Revolution on the Horizon
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Highlights Youth as Key to Unlocking Continent’s Digital Future
In a compelling address delivered on July 21, 2025, the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General underscored the critical importance of investing in Africa’s youth to harness the continent’s vast digital potential. Speaking at an event focused on Africa’s development, the Deputy Secretary-General articulated a vision where a digitally empowered generation of young Africans will drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress across the continent.
The Deputy Secretary-General’s remarks emphasized that Africa possesses the youngest population in the world, a demographic dividend that, if nurtured correctly, can propel the continent to the forefront of the digital age. This vibrant youth population, already demonstrating remarkable adaptability and eagerness to embrace new technologies, represents an unparalleled opportunity for transformation.
Central to this vision is the need for concerted efforts to equip young Africans with the skills, resources, and opportunities necessary to thrive in the digital economy. This includes expanding access to quality digital education, fostering digital literacy, and promoting entrepreneurship in technology-related fields. The Deputy Secretary-General stressed that “betting on youth” is not merely a matter of social policy, but a strategic imperative for realizing Africa’s ambitious development goals.
The digital transformation offers a powerful pathway for Africa to overcome historical challenges and leapfrog traditional development models. From e-health and digital agriculture to fintech and e-commerce, the applications of digital technology are vast and hold immense potential to improve lives and create sustainable economic opportunities. However, realizing this potential hinges on ensuring that young people are not only consumers of technology but also creators and innovators.
The UN Deputy Secretary-General called for increased investment in digital infrastructure, including affordable internet access and reliable electricity, to ensure that no young African is left behind. Furthermore, she highlighted the significance of creating enabling environments for digital startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are often driven by young entrepreneurs. Policies that support innovation, reduce regulatory barriers, and provide access to finance are crucial for fostering a thriving digital ecosystem.
The message was clear: Africa’s future is intrinsically linked to its youth, and its digital future is no exception. By prioritizing investments in education, skills development, and digital infrastructure, African nations, with the support of the international community, can empower their young people to become the architects of a more prosperous, inclusive, and digitally advanced continent. The time to bet on Africa’s youth and unleash their digital power is now.
‘Bet on youth’ to realise Africa’s digital potential, UN deputy chief says
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