Experts at the 2024 African Economic Conference say Africa’s youthful population, 75 per cent of whom are under 35, represents its most significant opportunity for transformation.

The experts spoke during a panel discussion at the ongoing AEC 2024 in Gaborone, Botswana.

They said that by developing skills in cutting-edge technologies, reducing barriers to internet access, and fostering entrepreneurship, the continent’s youth demography could emerge as the primary drivers of sustainable economic growth and innovation.

The conference is co-hosted by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and the United Nations Development Programme in collaboration with the government of Botswana.

The conference brought together experts from diverse fields to examine how technological innovation could fuel economic development, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion.

The session highlighted the urgent need to capitalise on Africa’s human capital while addressing structural challenges.

Moumouni Dialla, the president of PAN African Youth, emphasised the importance of regional and international partnerships to strengthen Africa’s technological capacity.

Wedu Somolekae, founder of Mesu-Glow Aesthetics, Botswana, tackled the issue of inclusivity in the Industry. She acknowledged the persistent marginalisation of rural and underserved communities in accessing technological advancements.

Lalima Mukherjee, a professor of Economics at the University of Engineering and Management in Kolkata, India, cautioned against the ecological costs of digital transformation.

Grant Davis, chair of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) campaign, called for equipping young Africans with skills in artificial intelligence, robotics, and other Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.

The panellists agreed that Africa’s future hinged on harnessing Industrial technologies while addressing inclusivity, skill development, and environmental challenges.

They said Africa’s transformation is an inevitable possibility with the right partnerships, policies, and mobilised youth.

(NAN)