Agriculture, technology investment can curb youth migration — Muloni

Tony Okoh, Uyo

A Senior Finance Business Partner based in Nairobi, Kenya, Brian Muloni, has said Africa’s weak economy and shortage of formal employment are driving a growing number of young Africans to migrate to the United States, Europe and other Western countries in search of better opportunities.

Muloni said the economies of many African countries were struggling to absorb the growing population of young job seekers, leaving many educated youths with limited opportunities for career advancement and economic security.

He disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, describing the United States as an increasingly attractive destination for young Africans seeking employment and improved living conditions.

According to him, the continent’s inability to generate enough formal employment has contributed significantly to the rising rate of youth migration.

“Economies across the continent simply cannot absorb the wave of young jobseekers. Formal employment remains scarce. The informal sector absorbs many, but it offers little security and less advancement.

“Africa’s weak economy is pushing many youths to America and other Western countries,” he said.

Muloni noted that the migration trend was also being encouraged by the growing number of African youths acquiring technology-related skills that are increasingly sought after by companies in the United States and other developed economies.

He said African immigrants were making significant contributions in sectors such as healthcare and technology, where demand for skilled professionals remains strong.

The finance expert, however, warned that the continued migration of young and educated Africans could deprive the continent of the human capital required to drive economic transformation.

He therefore called on African leaders to urgently implement policies aimed at strengthening national economies, creating sustainable employment and improving opportunities for young people.

Muloni stressed that investment in agriculture, technology and industrial development would help create jobs, stimulate economic growth and give young Africans greater incentives to remain on the continent.

“African leaders should drive towards stabilising Africa’s economy and reducing the rate of migration.

“Investment in agriculture, technology and industry will create jobs and give young people a reason to stay and build the continent,” he added.