Africa is home to the world’s fastest‑growing youth population, with 532 million young people aged 15–35—more than 22% of the global cohort.
This is according to the inaugural Africa Youth Employment Outlook 2026 has been released, marking the first in a series of reports designed to deepen understanding of Africa’s evolving youth labour market.
Produced by World Data Lab in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation and the University of Cape Town’s Development Policy Research Unit, the report provides fresh insights into the state of youth employment across the continent, with a strong focus on gender dynamics shaping access to work.
“Africa’s youth population continues to surge, positioning the continent as the world’s future talent engine. The 2026 Outlook report shows that, to harness this momentum, we must move beyond ‘any work’ to ‘dignified and fulfilling work,’” said Hannah Tsadik, Kenya Country Director, Mastercard Foundation.
Africa’s Youth Population: The World’s Future Workforce
Africa is home to 550 million young people aged 15–35, representing more than 22% of global youth. Unlike other regions where youth populations are shrinking, Africa’s youth numbers are projected to keep rising through the 2070s. This demographic boom positions the continent as the world’s future labour force, if investments in education, skills, and inclusive employment are made today.
“This report builds on the Africa Youth Employment Clock, laying an analytical foundation for understanding these trends,” said Wolfgang Fengler, CEO & Co‑Founder, World Data Lab.
Three Shifts Reshaping Africa’s Labour Market
1. From Work to Study
Many young Africans enter the labour market too early, often between ages 15–17, in low‑paying, informal agricultural jobs. This premature transition undermines long‑term prospects for formal, higher‑paying employment. The report warns that without stronger education systems and protections, millions risk being locked into vulnerable work.
2. From Agriculture to Services
Agriculture remains dominant, employing 47% of youth in 2025. But by 2033, services will overtake agriculture as the largest employer, with 3.8 million more youth working in services. Service jobs are more likely to be formal (22%) compared with industry (12%) and agriculture (3%), offering higher income potential.
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3. From Rural to Urban
Urbanisation is accelerating the shift from agriculture to services. Youth employment is increasingly concentrated in cities, reshaping the geography of work and creating demand for new skills in urban economies.
Gender Dynamics: Women Still Left Behind
The report highlights persistent gender gaps. Young women remain disproportionately excluded from labour markets, making up 61% of youth not in employment, education, or training (NEET). Care responsibilities are a major barrier, with 28% of women outside the labour force citing unpaid care work compared to just 3% of men.
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While women are more represented in services, they are often concentrated in the most informal and lowest‑paying subsectors. Closing this gap will require dismantling systemic barriers, expanding childcare services, and ensuring equal access to education and formal employment opportunities.
The report underscores that Africa’s youth dividend can become a foundation for shared prosperity if governments, private sector actors, and development partners invest in education, skills, and inclusive labour markets.
