In a world where Africa’s youth represent the fastest-growing demographic, a new podcast titled Future of Africa has been launched to ensure their voices are not only heard but actively shape the continent’s future. Spearheaded by the African Union Youth Envoy, in collaboration with the United Nations Foundation and The Elders, the podcast highlights the aspirations, challenges, and innovations of Africa’s young leaders.
Why this podcast matters
Africa is home to more than 400 million youth aged 15–35 the continent’s greatest resource and a key driver of its future (African Union). Yet, young Africans are often excluded from high-level policy dialogues. The Future of Africa podcast seeks to change this by creating a space where youth-led ideas and solutions are front and centre.
As African Union Youth Envoy Chido Mpemba has emphasised, empowering youth with platforms to speak and be heard is essential for inclusive development (UN Foundation).
A platform for real conversations
Unlike traditional forums, the podcast leverages digital media to connect directly with young Africans. Each episode features youth leaders, activists, innovators, and policymakers, offering raw and authentic conversations that go beyond political rhetoric.
Listeners can expect discussions on topics such as:
- How young Africans are pioneering climate action at the grassroots level.
- The role of youth in driving peacebuilding in conflict-prone regions.
- The impact of digital innovation and entrepreneurship in transforming economies.
- Tackling barriers to education and gender equality across the continent.
By blending storytelling with policy insights, Future of Africa creates a unique platform that informs, inspires, and mobilises.
Bridging generations
The collaboration with The Elders, a group of independent global leaders founded by Nelson Mandela, adds another powerful dimension. It underscores the importance of bridging generational perspectives, allowing Africa’s youth to converse with and challenge experienced leaders on the continent’s most pressing issues (The Elders).
This intergenerational dialogue strengthens accountability, fosters mentorship, and ensures that Africa’s future is shaped through cooperation rather than exclusion.
Looking ahead
With the rise of digital platforms, African youth are increasingly using podcasts, social media, and online communities to influence policy and advocacy. Future of Africa taps into this trend, ensuring young voices have both reach and resonance across the continent and beyond.
For policymakers, development partners, and the private sector, this is more than a podcast it is a call to action. If Africa is to unlock its potential, youth must not only be seen as beneficiaries of development but as co-creators of solutions.
As Chido Mpemba puts it, “The future of Africa is not tomorrow—it is now, and it is youth-led” (Africa Podcast).