Africa has the youngest population in the world, with almost 200 million people aged between 15 and 24. It is believed that the number of young people will double by 2045. If growth continues as it has done – an annual increase in the working-age population of 2.7 percent per year, or 13 million – then Africa’s labour force will consist of one billion people by 2040. Should this occur, it would surpass both India and China.

As Africa continues to grow, the overflowing working-age population could mean huge advances for the continent. It has been forecasted that this young population has the ability to create $500 billion per year for the next 30 years – if handled correctly, the possibilities are immense. The sum of $500 billion equates to one third of the GDP.

Across the board, things are looking positive for Africa’s youth. By 2030, 59 percent of 20-24 year olds in Africa will have a secondary education, compared to the current 42 percent. This will mean that 137 million 20-24 year olds will have a secondary education, and 12 million a tertiary education. With this figure, opportunities for economic and social development are on offer if these talents are put to use. Between 2000 and 2008, the International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that Africa created 73 million jobs, but only 16 million of which were for 15-24 year olds.

This younger generation is also becoming better equipped at using the internet and social media. Smartphones are becoming much more readily available throughout the continent, but broadband access still lags behind other regions. Today, there are 150 million smartphones in Africa, which is expected to grow to 800 million by 2021. By joining the digital revolution and making the internet more accessible, it can help solve some of the issues surrounding youth unemployment.

Speaking at a press conference to discuss the benefits of connecting East Africa online at the recent World Economic forum in Kigali, vice president of sustainability and corporate responsibility for the Ericson Group worldwide, Elaine Weidman-Grunewald said: “The amount of data going through the networks is doubling in just a nine month period, so the opportunities are enormous, as are the jobs that that can bring, the economic benefits and the social benefits.”

With more young Africans receiving secondary education, this is the perfect opportunity to inform and train them on emerging digital technologies. Increasing opportunities for young people must be provided by making higher education relevant to development needs.

Speaking at World Economic Forum in Kigali, founder and chief officer of The Web Tekies Ltd, Wanjuhi Njoroge added: “When we talk about young people and connectivity, connecting them is providing them with opportunities; to create employment and to be better.”