Recent youth-led protests across Africa reflect growing frustration among young people towards the ruling political class, whom they blame for missed economic opportunities and rampant corruption. These demonstrations highlight the generational divide and a demand for change from Kenya to Uganda. In Kenya, protests against high taxes and corruption led President William Ruto to withdraw a controversial finance bill and reshuffle his cabinet. However, the youth’s leaderless and tribeless approach has complicated dialogue efforts. According to Kjell Magne Bondevik, the former prime minister of Norway, Africa’s youth have to figure out how to dialogue with their leaders if they want to make any meaningful contribution to state affairs. Beyond the lack of dialogue, Africa’s youth have other barriers, including limited education and internet access, which hinder their engagement with governments. If Africa’s youths are to reach their full potential, then many things have to be put in place, including the right infrastructure.
SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN
Can Africa’s Youth Turn their Discontent to Action to Drive Change?
