Global Powers Viewed Favorably by Africa's Youth, Survey Shows

A recent survey reveals that Africa's youth generally hold favorable opinions of global powers, suggesting optimism about their role and influence on the continent's future. The findings highlight the positive perception among young Africans toward international players, reflecting hopes for economic, political, and social advancements driven by these global relationships. This outlook could shape the future interactions between Africa and leading world powers.

As the fastest-growing demographic in the world, African youth are projected to represent over a third of the global youth population by 2050, influencing both the continent's and the world’s future. In light of this, the African Youth Survey 2024, conducted by the Ichikowitz Family Foundation, polled over 5,000 young people aged 18 to 24 from countries such as Botswana, Cameroon, Ghana, and Nigeria, asking about their views on topics like future ambitions, technology, and the environment.

The survey also explored opinions on foreign influence in Africa. Nearly seven in ten (72%) respondents expressed concern about the impact of foreign countries and organizations on Africa and their respective nations, though this is a drop from 81% in 2020. Youth from South Africa (90%), Congo Brazzaville (81%), and Kenya (80%) showed the highest concern, while those from Rwanda (49%), Côte d’Ivoire (54%), and Chad (58%) were more divided.

Among the three major superpowers, China was seen as the most influential on the African continent, with 76% of respondents acknowledging China’s impact, followed by the United States (70%). Russia, however, was viewed as less influential, with only 42% perceiving its influence on Africa.

Each superpower was largely viewed positively by the youth, with China receiving particularly high praise for its affordable products and infrastructure investments. Those critical of China pointed to concerns such as the extraction of natural resources without fair compensation and fears of economic colonialism.

Positive views of U.S. influence were driven by its economic support and the job opportunities it has provided. On the flip side, critics cited economic colonialism and American companies extracting natural resources unfairly, along with interference in domestic affairs.

Regarding Russia, positive perceptions stemmed from its provision of grain and fertilizer and historical ties with African countries. Negative views were primarily due to Russia’s involvement in conflicts that impact African nations and concerns about natural resource exploitation without fair compensation.

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Source: Statista‍