EPISODE · Oct 27, 2025 · 22 MIN
Young, Urban, Digitally Connected - Africa's Youth DEMAND Change
from Africa Here and NOW
One in four people in the world will soon be African, and the majority will be under 30, urban, and digitally connected. We discuss with MICHELLE GAVIN how the demographic shift represents a new era for the continent —one that is already shaking the foundations of long-standing political power.Is this wave of popular demand a recipe for chaos or democratic renewal? Listen to find out why the "old playbook" for African politics is obsoleteThe conversation explores the transformative potential of Africa's youth in shaping the continent's political landscape. With a significant portion of the population being young and urban, there is a growing demand for change that challenges the existing political elite. The discussion delves into the implications of demographic shifts, economic challenges, migration patterns, and the role of external actors in Africa's future. It highlights the potential for both unrest and democratic renewal as young people assert their rights and seek opportunities for a better life.takeawaysOne in every four of the world's population will be African.Political volatility is going to shake up the region.Young people are increasingly urban and connected.Demographic dividend comes when the transition comes.Migration is going to be a part of the story.The future of work is uncertain for Africa.External actors are not the main factor driving change.Violence and unrest will happen, but not everywhere.Senegal could end up as an upholder of constitutionalism.We can learn a lot from these young societies.Michelle Gavin's book: How Urban Youth are Transforming African Politics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What this episode covers
One in four people in the world will soon be African, and the majority will be under 30, urban, and digitally connected. We discuss with MICHELLE GAVIN how the demographic shift represents a new era for the continent —one that is already shaking the foundations of long-standing political power.Is this wave of popular demand a recipe for chaos or democratic renewal? Listen to find out why the "old playbook" for African politics is obsoleteThe conversation explores the transformative potential of Africa's youth in shaping the continent's political landscape. With a significant portion of the population being young and urban, there is a growing demand for change that challenges the existing political elite. The discussion delves into the implications of demographic shifts, economic challenges, migration patterns, and the role of external actors in Africa's future. It highlights the potential for both unrest and democratic renewal as young people assert their rights and seek opportunities for a better life.takeawaysOne in every four of the world's population will be African.Political volatility is going to shake up the region.Young people are increasingly urban and connected.Demographic dividend comes when the transition comes.Migration is going to be a part of the story.The future of work is uncertain for Africa.External actors are not the main factor driving change.Violence and unrest will happen, but not everywhere.Senegal could end up as an upholder of constitutionalism.We can learn a lot from these young societies.Michelle Gavin's book: How Urban Youth are Transforming African Politics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Young, Urban, Digitally Connected - Africa's Youth DEMAND Change
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