Africa’s Young Population Isn’t a Burden but a Blessing with Prudent Investment – Otumfuo
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has stated that the opportunities presented by Africa’s youthful population will be fully realised if the requisite investment is made.
His Majesty emphasised the potential in Africa’s growing youth population while addressing a gathering at the Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanów on May 29, 2026.
“When I speak of Africa, I speak of a continent of numerous opportunities. By the middle of this century, Africa will be home to one of the biggest, youngest populations in the world. This is not a burden. It is a blessing if we invest in it wisely,” he said.
Otumfuo added that the population needs skills, jobs, dignity and viable opportunities that will keep them at home.
“They want to be able to stay at home and build meaningful lives rather than risk their lives crossing deserts in search of wealth elsewhere,” he said.
This, Otumfuo emphasised, must be a shared responsibility with Europe, where many Africans often migrate in search of better lives.
“If Europe wishes to address migration, it must help create opportunities in Africa. If Africa wishes to retain its youth, then African leaders must create conditions for enterprise, agriculture, manufacturing and decent work,” His Majesty said.
“This is where Poland and Africa can meet. Let us build vocational and technical partnerships. Let Polish companies work with African universities and technical institutes. Let us create exchange programmes for engineers, doctors, nurses, cultural scientists, ICT specialists and entrepreneurs,” he added.
By doing this, His Majesty said Africa and Poland will move from ceremonial diplomacy to practical cooperation.
The occupant of the Golden Stool posited that a young Ghanaian trained in modern manufacturing, agro-processing, robotics, energy or medical technology is not only an African asset, but also a bridge between continents.
Story by Hajara Fuseini
Click to read more: https://opemsuo.com/author/hajara-fuseini/
