Sahel
The programme targets three regions: the Sahel, the Middle East and North Africa, and the Horn of Africa.
Sahel
- The Sahel has a young population. Three out of four people are younger than 34;
- Due to huge spending on national security, there is less money left for education;
- 90% of all jobs are in the informal economy;
- The region is fragile, poverty is rife and the state is often absent;
- Young people lack prospects but are increasingly making their demand for a place within the political system heard.
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Challenges
- In Mali nearly 1,000 schools have closed because of the security situation. As a result, over 250,000 children have no access to education
- 61% of children get a basic education
- There is a severe shortage of qualified teachers
- Access to finance is the greatest challenge for young people who want to start a business
- The region’s economies are isolated
- Unemployment is highest among young people with little or no basic education
Opportunities
- A large young, working-age population offers tremendous growth potential
- Governments acknowledge the challenges facing young people; they’re on the political agenda
- Population growth and urbanisation are increasing demand for food, goods and services. This could boost employment
- Potential for employment growth in IT, sustainable energy and agriculture
- Regional trade offers prospects for growth
- Entrepreneurship is becoming more popular
