Animation Digitalisation and Youth Employment in Africa

Economies are digitalising. How can digitalisation work for youth employment in Africa?  There are challenges. Job options are poor and most youth work in the informal sector. Internet access is low. Devices and data plans are expensive, with electricity unreliable. And young people lack digital skills. Young women and those vulnerable face a bigger digital gap. Plus: internet governance is lacking. Tech companies are monopolising the internet with net neutrality at stake. Internet freedom is increasingly restricted. How can Dutch development policy ensure digitalisation delivers for young people in Africa? There are upcoming trends. There is more awareness of internet governance and protecting data and rights online. There are more infrastructure projects but there is a need to regulate companies leading them. Local innovation is getting around challenges. And people are looking to the online space for learning and education. In addition, new models are emerging for nurturing tech start-ups and skills. The Advisory Council on International Affairs recommends the government of the Netherlands to invest in: Accessible and affordable internet for all, as a public good; Protecting online freedoms; Developing young people's skills; Promoting online education; Supporting sectors to digitalise and create jobs. And last but not least, investment can go into helping young entrepreneurs formalise and grow their businesses. Of course, let's make sure we hear young people's views.