On November 2, West African countries adopted the Freetown Declaration, a framework of recommendations aimed at strengthening youth employment, developing productive activities, and accelerating inclusive economic transformation in the sub-region. The declaration was adopted at the 29th session of the Intergovernmental Committee of Senior Officials and Experts for West Africa, held in Freetown, Sierra Leone, from October 28 to 30. The committee was organized by the Sierra Leonean government and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.
The Freetown Declaration calls on states to adapt education and vocational training to meet labor market needs, enhance digital and entrepreneurial skills among young people, and facilitate their access to financing, land, and means of production. It also recommends increasing investments in agriculture, agro-industry, livestock, extractive industries, and digital services, which are considered sectors with high job creation potential. These recommendations aim to address the challenges faced by young people in accessing employment opportunities.
The declaration emphasizes the importance of integrating youth employment priorities into national development policies and public budgets. It also highlights the need to develop regional value chains and promote youth participation in trade within the African Continental Free Trade Area. Furthermore, the declaration recommends improving labor market statistics, particularly for young people who are not in employment, education, or training.
The Freetown Declaration stresses the need to strengthen youth participation in the mining, tourism, and sports sectors, while developing mechanisms to prevent and address drug abuse and psychoactive substance use. The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and its partners are called upon to support states in coordinating public policies, improving statistical data, and sharing experiences.
The declaration encourages the private sector to invest more in productive activities, develop apprenticeship programs, and facilitate access to markets, financing, and mentorship for young entrepreneurs. To ensure follow-up on commitments, the Bureau of the Intergovernmental Committee of Senior Officials and Experts for West Africa, with the support of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, will monitor progress.
The Freetown Declaration was adopted by representatives of governments, regional and international organizations, the private sector, academia, and civil society. The committee's theme, "Unlocking the Potential of Youth in West Africa: Levers for Employment, Economic Transformation, and Resilience," reflects the region's focus on addressing youth unemployment and promoting economic growth.
The adoption of the Freetown Declaration marks a significant step towards promoting youth employment and economic transformation in West Africa. The declaration's recommendations are expected to guide policy decisions and investments in the region, with a focus on creating jobs and promoting inclusive economic growth.
Key points
- West African countries adopt Freetown Declaration to boost youth employment and economic transformation
- Declaration calls for adapting education and vocational training to meet labor market needs
- Private sector urged to invest in productive activities and support young entrepreneurs
