Africa’s youth see a brighter future, but demand change

What the report says

A new survey reported by The Independent Uganda suggests that young Africans are feeling more hopeful about their countries and the continent, while also becoming more demanding about government performance. The article says the 2026 African Youth Survey was released by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation and conducted by PSB Insights, based on interviews with 4,901 people aged 18 to 24 across 16 countries in March 2026.

According to the findings, optimism has improved since 2024: more respondents said their country, economy and Africa overall are moving in the right direction. But the same survey points to strong frustration over living costs, unemployment, corruption and limited political inclusion. Young people ranked well-paying jobs as their top priority, followed by efforts to curb corruption and make it easier to start businesses.

The report also says many respondents want international partnerships that bring trade, investment and other practical benefits, rather than ties based mainly on ideology. The United States and China were identified as the most influential external powers, with China viewed more positively among those who recognized its influence.

The survey further shows broad support for democracy, although many young Africans say existing political systems do not fit local realities. The Independent Uganda presents the results as a sign that Africa’s youth want both democracy and delivery, and are increasingly seeing employment and basic services as central to security and stability.