Youth in Africa: A Demographic Imperative for Peace and Security

Youth in Africa: A Demographic Imperative for Peace and Security

January 2, 2023

The report is the result of a comprehensive study that aims at understanding how to harness and scale innovative youth-led peacebuilding solutions in Africa. It builds on a desk review and case studies conducted in three target regions, the Horn of Africa, the Great Lakes Region and the Sahel, as well as key contributions and recommendations collected from young peacebuilders, through focus group discussions.

The report builds on the fact that, despite the socio-economic and political challenges they face, youth remain proactive and engaged in peacebuilding within their communities through innovative approaches. Young people contribute positively on issues ranging from prevention of electoral violence, early warning and response mechanisms, reconciliation initiatives, community dialogues, and more. The study sought to assess the extent to which national and regional interventions have leveraged Africa’s large youth population to improve peacebuilding results and provide recommendations on how to ensure this is effectively achieved.

The report ‘’Youth in Africa: A demographic imperative for peace and security’’ was developed with the contributions and inputs from peer colleagues, and from young peacebuilders who were consulted during focus group discussions.