A new initiative aimed at transforming youth employment and entrepreneurship in Africa was launched in Nairobi on September 30, 2025, bringing together county trade ministries, youth, and women-led enterprises. The Youth Futures Portfolio in Dignified and Fulfilling Work in Africa is a 34-month research program funded by the Mastercard Foundation, running from February 2025 to December 2027.
The initiative spans eight African countries - Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ghana, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Senegal, and South Africa - and is led by the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) at the University of Ghana. It seeks to generate evidence, inform policy, and strengthen youth agency in decision-making, ultimately unlocking opportunities for young people to access quality education, relevant skills, and dignified work.
The International Centre for Evaluation and Development (ICED) is a key consortium partner and will lead project implementation in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. In Kenya, the research will focus on Nairobi, Kajiado, and Kitui counties, working in close collaboration with local governments and enterprise groups.
Key project activities include cross-country comparative research, development of training modules and toolkits, policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and targeted knowledge dissemination. The goal is to generate actionable evidence that addresses both demand- and supply-side barriers to youth employment and enterprise growth.
“Africa’s greatest asset is its young people. Through this initiative, we are deepening the evidence base needed to shape policies, programs, and systems that create pathways for dignified work and inclusive prosperity for youth across the continent,”
– said Dr. David Ameyaw, President and CEO of ICED.
By strengthening evidence-informed policies and building the capacity of youth and ecosystem stakeholders, the Youth Futures Portfolio aims to shape a future where young Africans can thrive as innovators, entrepreneurs, and change-makers in their economies.
