Fatshimetrie
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, unemployment remains a major challenge, with a particularly high prevalence in urban areas and mainly affecting young people aged 15 to 24. According to 2017 data from the International Labor Office (ILO), the youth unemployment rate is estimated at 15.85%, significantly higher than the rate of 9.37% observed among adults.
When he came to power in 2019, the incumbent president made ambitious promises regarding employment, including that of creating Congolese millionaires in order to effectively combat youth unemployment. In addition to this objective, he committed to promoting the emergence of a dynamic middle class among young people and leading the country towards a stage of sustainable and equitable development.
The issue of youth unemployment in the DRC is complex and multifactorial. It is the result of various causes, such as the lack of economic opportunities, the mismatch between youth skills and labor market needs, and structural challenges related to the national economy. To address this challenge, it is imperative to put in place effective public policies aimed at promoting the creation of decent jobs, strengthening the capacities of young people in vocational training and entrepreneurship, and promoting an environment conducive to investment and innovation.
In this context, it is essential to raise public awareness, mobilize political, economic and social actors, and stimulate citizen participation in the fight against youth unemployment. Initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, encouraging youth employment in growth sectors of the economy, and strengthening cooperation between the public sector, the private sector and civil society are of paramount importance in this perspective.
Ultimately, the issue of youth unemployment in the DRC is a crucial issue that requires a holistic and concerted approach. By promoting young people’s access to decent employment, investing in their training and professional development, and stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship, the country will be able to truly open up new future prospects for its youth and contribute to building a more inclusive, equitable and prosperous society for all.