Sammy Gyamfi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), has urged African governments, businesses, and the global diaspora to invest more deliberately in the continent’s youthful population. He warned that Africa’s demographic advantage could become a crisis if opportunities are not created for its young people. This call was made during his address at the EMY Africa – Africa Rising Symposium in London on Thursday, July 30.
Mr. Gyamfi highlighted that Africa is home to approximately 532 million young people aged between 15 and 35. This number is projected to continue growing over the coming decades, as indicated by the Mastercard Foundation’s Africa Youth Employment Outlook 2026. He stressed that this growing youth population represents one of Africa's greatest assets, and its future hinges on effectively equipping and empowering these young individuals.
This emphasis on youth investment aligns with broader discussions about Africa's economic trajectory and its potential to become a global economic powerhouse. Ghana, like many African nations, faces the challenge of translating its youthful demographic into productive economic growth. Addressing youth unemployment and fostering entrepreneurship are critical components of Ghana's long-term development strategy, aiming to prevent social unrest and brain drain.
“If we harness the potential of this youthful population, Africa becomes the world’s next great engine of productivity and creativity,” Mr. Gyamfi stated. He further cautioned, “If we fail them, then what ought to be a demographic advantage may well become a demographic crisis, expressed through high unemployment, migration without dignity, social unrest, and the loss of confidence in the African promise.” This statement underscores the urgency of his appeal.
The immediate implication of Mr. Gyamfi's call is a renewed focus on policies and initiatives that support youth development across Africa. Decision-makers in Ghana and other African countries will likely face increased pressure to create pathways to productive work, provide access to capital, and offer mentorship opportunities. The diaspora's role in investing in productive businesses and sharing expertise will also be a key area to watch, potentially shifting from traditional remittances to more strategic long-term investments.
Mr. Gyamfi insisted that young Africans do not need sympathy but practical support. He emphasized the need for access to skills, financing, credit, markets, technology, mentorship, and institutions that reward effort. He believes the diaspora can significantly help unlock these opportunities. Empowering Africa’s youth through education, enterprise, and investment is crucial for the continent’s anticipated economic rise to translate into improved livelihoods for millions.
The Mastercard Foundation’s Africa Youth Employment Outlook 2026 projects continued growth in Africa's youth population through the 2070s. This long-term demographic trend makes strategic investment in youth a sustained imperative for economic stability and growth. The continent's ability to integrate this large, young workforce into its economies will determine its future prosperity and global standing.
Ghana's government, alongside regional bodies like the African Union, will need to consider these recommendations in their economic planning. The call for greater investment in youth is not merely a social issue but a fundamental economic one, directly impacting GDP growth, poverty reduction, and overall human development. The coming years will show how effectively these calls are translated into tangible policies and outcomes.