Africa's rapidly growing population is often described as one of the continent's greatest assets, but for many young Rwandans, whether that promise translates into prosperity will depend on key factors like investment in the people. As the world marks World Population Day on July 11, The New Times spoke with young people in Kigali who shared their thoughts about Africa's future, their hopes as well as concerns over unemployment, access to healthcare, among other issues. The World Population Day is an annual event, observed on July 11 every year, which seeks to raise awareness of global population issues. What the youth say: Speaking to The New Times, Arlency Magambo, a 22-year-old student in Kigali, said she believes Africa's population boom presents both opportunities and risks. There are simply not enough resources or financing to support the growing number of young people seeking opportunities, she said. According to Magambo, demand for employment, business capital and education continues to outpace the resources available from governments and private investors. However, Magambo believes that if young people receive the right education, practical skills and equipment, Africa has the potential to become one of the world's wealthiest and most economically independent continents. Grace Mupenzi, a 22-year-old also living in Kigali, described population growth as an opportunity, provided governments continue investing in education, skills development and job creation. Our youth can become one of our greatest assets if they are empowered, she said. But finding decent jobs is becoming increasingly difficult because more young people are competing for limited opportunities. Similarly, Turatsinze Gahiga, a 29-year-old technician and part-time farmer from Kanombe, believes opportunities already exist but are not always fully utilised. He pointed to Rwanda's investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), saying many young people overlook practical skills in favour of white-collar employment. The government has created opportunities for young people to acquire skills, he said. It is now up to us to use those opportunities. Ketya Umwiza, a student in Kigali, believes Rwanda's growing population creates opportunities by encouraging innovation and expanding economic activity. A growing economy creates new possibilities and encourages people to become innovative instead of relying on existing opportunities, she said. For Divine Karabo Niyibizi, 21, a languages translator, many governments, including Rwanda's, have made encouraging progress through investments in education, skills development and youth empowerment. She also noted growing acceptance of women in careers traditionally dominated by men, alongside increased support for innovation and entrepreneurship. Preparing for Africa's future requires governments, entrepreneurs, educators and communities to work together, she said. It cannot be achieved by governments alone. Jonathan Divin, a 24-year-old call centre employee in Kigali, said financial stability remains one of the biggest considerations for many young people. For Isaac Thani, a 30-year-old IT researcher and engineer based in Kimironko, Africa's growing population should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a burden. Africa has the youngest population in the world. It is full of bright and creative young people, he said. The challenge is creating an environment where they can thrive here at home instead of being forced to migrate elsewhere in search of better opportunities.
