The 40th Regional Dialogue for Non-State Actors on the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2022-2030 highlighted the critical role of youth empowerment in driving socio-economic development across Africa. With the continent poised to see a surge in its youth population entering the workforce by 2030, the dialogue emphasized the urgent need for policies and initiatives that equip young people with the necessary skills and resources to contribute meaningfully to their countries’ and the region’s growth.
A key focus of the discussions was the need to transform Africa’s education systems to better prepare the youth for the future of work, particularly in light of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies. Participants stressed the importance of integrating AI and digital literacy into school curricula, ensuring that young Africans are not only consumers of technology but also innovators and creators. The dialogue also called for quality reform in education, advocating for the inclusion of entrepreneurial skills and technical training that align with the demands of modern economies.
Access to funding emerged as a significant barrier for young entrepreneurs across the SADC region. The dialogue emphasized the need for targeted financial policies that support startups, particularly those led by young people. There was a strong call for governments and international partners to invest in youth-led enterprises, creating and expanding funding mechanisms, such as venture capital funds and microfinance options, to provide the necessary capital for young entrepreneurs to launch and scale their businesses.
Inclusive policies that ensure marginalized communities are not left behind in the push for youth empowerment were also a major topic of discussion. Participants urged for the provision of IT services and digital infrastructure in rural and underserved areas, enabling young people in these regions to access the same opportunities as their urban counterparts. The commitment to “leave no one behind” was echoed throughout the dialogue, with a focus on ensuring that all young people, regardless of their background, have the tools they need to succeed.
The dialogue also addressed the noticeable mismatch between the skills young people currently possess and the needs of employers. Comprehensive capacity-building programs that equip the youth with both digital and soft skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, were identified as crucial. There was a strong emphasis on continuous learning, with participants advocating for ongoing training and upskilling initiatives that allow young people to adapt to the evolving demands of the workforce.
A recurring theme was the need to balance the preservation of African cultural heritage with the adoption of new technologies. Participants pointed out that while AI and digital tools offer immense potential, it is crucial to ensure that these advancements align with African values and traditions. There was a call for a generational dialogue that bridges the gap between older and younger Africans, ensuring that the continent’s development is inclusive and respects its rich cultural diversity.
As young Africans increasingly engage in innovation, the dialogue highlighted the growing need to protect their intellectual property. Participants emphasized the importance of safeguarding the creations and innovations of young people through copyright, trademarks, patents, and other forms of intellectual property rights. The discussion included examples of task forces, like those in Uganda, that focus on regulating and promoting AI and other technologies, ensuring that youth-led innovations are recognized and protected.
In conclusion, the 40th Regional Dialogue for Non-State Actors on the SADC RISDP 2022-2030 underscored that youth empowerment is not just a goal but a necessity for the sustainable development of Africa and the SADC region. By focusing on skills development, financial support, inclusive policies, and the protection of innovations, the region can harness the potential of its young population to drive economic growth and regional integration. As the SADC continues to implement the RISDP 2022-2030, the insights and recommendations from this dialogue will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the region, ensuring that the youth are at the forefront of its development agenda.
