In Guinea, a country with a population of over 13 million people, the youth are increasingly taking matters into their own hands. Despite government promises of progress and development, many young people are turning to digital platforms to create their own opportunities. According to DataReportal, only one in four Guineans was online in early 2025, but this number is expected to grow as networks expand. The mobile money sector, for example, now accounts for over 5% of Guinea's GDP.
The government's efforts to address the country's challenges have been insufficient, leading to a sense of disillusionment among young people. Recently, 10,000 public sector jobs were announced, but with over 140,000 applicants, the competition is fierce. Many young people are turning to informal employment, with over 80% of jobs in the informal sector. This has significant implications for their social protection and economic stability. The lack of stable employment opportunities has led to a growing sense of frustration among young people.
To address these challenges, the government needs to prioritize infrastructure development, including energy and internet access. Currently, only about 53% of Guinea's population has access to electricity, according to the World Bank. The government has announced plans to increase the capacity of the national fiber optic backbone by 700% in 18 months, which could help improve internet access. However, more needs to be done to ensure that young people have access to the resources they need to succeed.
The youth are not rejecting the state out of ideology, but rather because they have lost faith in its ability to deliver. They are not looking for a handout, but rather for the government to create an enabling environment for them to thrive. This includes access to finance, markets, and technology. The government needs to work with private sector operators, financial partners, and investors to create opportunities for young people.
One potential solution is for the government to establish a clear and stable regulatory framework that supports the growth of the digital economy. This could include measures such as licenses for payment gateways, a regulatory sandbox, and anti-money laundering measures. The government could also work to reduce the cost of data and improve internet access, which would help to level the playing field for young entrepreneurs.
If nothing changes, the consequences could be severe. Many young people may choose to leave the country in search of better opportunities, which could have significant implications for Guinea's economic and social development. The government needs to take concrete and verifiable steps to address the challenges facing young people. This could include a pact for digital development, with clear targets and indicators.
Ultimately, the youth of Guinea are not looking for a handout, but rather for the government to create an enabling environment for them to thrive. They are already taking matters into their own hands, using digital platforms to create their own opportunities. The government needs to work with them to create a brighter future for Guinea.
Key points
- The government needs to prioritize infrastructure development, including energy and internet access, to support the growth of the digital economy.
