African Youth Survey: 60% Consider Emigration Amid Corruption Concerns

More than half of African youth believe the continent is headed in the "wrong direction," fueling a potential exodus, a new survey finds.

A staggering 60% of African youth are looking to emigrate within the next five years, driven by concerns that unchecked corruption is jeopardizing their future, according to the 2024 African Youth Survey released on Tuesday.

The poll, conducted by the Johannesburg-based Ichikowitz Family Foundation, surveyed over 5,600 young people aged 18-24 across 16 African countries.

The survey found that African youth view corruption as the "single greatest hurdle" they face in achieving their potential and having a better life. A majority feel their governments are not doing enough to address the scourge, leading nearly 60% to consider leaving their home countries.

North America emerged as the top destination for potential emigrants, followed by Western European countries like the UK, France, Germany, and Spain.

Disillusionment among African youth runs deep, with 55% saying the continent is headed in the "wrong direction," although "Afro-optimism" saw a modest rise to 37% from the 2022 survey.

Beyond a crackdown on corruption, young Africans are seeking tougher sanctions against corrupt politicians, including bans on holding office, and many favor an "African-infused" form of democracy. Nearly one in three believe non-democratic systems like military or one-party rule could be preferable in some circumstances.

Foreign exploitation of Africa’s natural resources is another major concern, with 72% viewing foreign influence as an issue. China and the US are seen as having a largely positive impact by most youth surveyed. Perceptions of Russian influence have increased, particularly in Malawi and South Africa, driven in part by Russia’s provision of grain and fertilizer.

In terms of the upcoming US presidential election, a majority said a victory by Kamala Harris would be far better for Africa than another term for Donald Trump.

The survey’s findings echo troubling migration trends detailed in a recent Arab Barometer report on Morocco. The report revealed that 55% of young Moroccans aged 18-29 want to emigrate, with 45% citing economic reasons and 53% willing to leave without proper documentation.

Morocco’s challenges mirror those of other countries in the region, underscoring the urgency of addressing root causes of emigration like corruption and lack of economic opportunity.

With Africa’s youth population set to double to over 830 million by 2050, the 2024 African Youth Survey provides a vital window into the aspirations and grievances of the continent’s young people.

Tackling corruption, strengthening democracy, and ensuring the benefits of Africa’s resources flow to its people will be critical to staving off a destabilizing youth exodus in the years ahead.