IN a fresh look at Africa’s digital landscape, the African Youth Survey 2024 offers a nuanced perspective on young Africans’ views on internet access, misinformation, and the role of artificial intelligence (AI). Released on African Youth Day, November 1, the survey captures the perspectives of nearly 15,000 young people across 25 African nations, revealing both optimism and caution as the continent’s youth navigate a rapidly changing digital world.
The survey, commissioned by the Ichikowitz Foundation, an influential African non-governmental organisation (NGO), demonstrates how connectivity has significantly expanded over recent years while revealing concerns over fake news and the potential misuse of AI. Young Africans are embracing digital opportunities, yet many see challenges and risks alongside the benefits.
Fake news and misinformation: a key concern
One of the survey’s most striking findings is the high level of concern about misinformation, which 75 percent of respondents cite as a ‘serious problem’ in their communities. Young Africans worry that fake news affects public safety, national sovereignty, social harmony, and democracy itself. With social media serving as a primary news source for young Africans, concerns about the quality and trustworthiness of information are paramount. Facebook, for example, is identified as the main news source by 56 percent of respondents, followed closely by WhatsApp (41 percent) and television (64 percent).
These findings underscore the unique challenges that social media-driven news consumption brings to the continent. Ivor Ichikowitz, Founder and Executive Chairman of the Ichikowitz Foundation, highlighted the dangers posed by unverified information circulating in these channels, noting, ‘The spread of fake news undermines trust and poses significant threats to democratic stability and social cohesion across Africa. As more young Africans go online, they face the growing task of filtering reliable information from the influx of digital content.’
AI: opportunity and threat
Artificial intelligence is viewed as both a potential asset and a liability by Africa’s youth. More than two-thirds (71 percent) fear that AI could facilitate the spread of fake news, a concern compounded by the technology’s potential to amplify misinformation through algorithms and automated content generation. The survey found that 38 percent of young Africans worry AI may cause more harm than good, though 51 percent ultimately see it as a positive force.
The dual perspectives on AI reflect the global ambivalence about the technology’s role in shaping society. While some young Africans see AI as a tool for economic development, especially in enhancing education, healthcare, and digital services, others worry it could exacerbate misinformation. ‘Africa’s “digital decade” is fast approaching,’ Ichikowitz observed, ‘and while AI, cloud computing, and other advancements promise new opportunities, Africa’s youth must remain vigilant to the potential risks that come with these technologies.’
Internet access as a fundamental right
Access to the internet has become increasingly crucial for young Africans, with four out of five respondents viewing connectivity as a fundamental human right. This sentiment, particularly strong in Nigeria (93 percent), Rwanda (92 percent), Côte d’Ivoire (91 percent), and Ghana (90 percent), has returned to pre-Covid levels, underscoring a significant shift in how digital access is perceived.
However, despite improved connectivity, only about two-thirds of young Africans have regular, private access to the internet, with economic barriers remaining a significant obstacle. Nonetheless, perceptions of affordability have improved, with 41 percent of respondents now considering the price of data ‘fair’ or even ‘a bargain’ – a notable 10 percent increase since the last survey in 2022. Only 10 percent of respondents report being unable to afford digital access at all, a significant improvement from 23 percent two years ago.
Social media dominates digital life
For Africa’s youth, social media has become the primary digital hub. The survey shows that 74 percent of respondents spend most of their online time on social media platforms, a trend that has implications for news consumption, personal relationships, and even civic engagement. Beyond social media, young people are also using multimedia (39 percent), productivity (32 percent), and commuting apps (30 percent) – though news and information apps trail behind, used by only 22 percent of respondents.
Interestingly, social media’s dominance in the digital lives of African youth has also reshaped their approach to relationships. Around 60 percent of respondents say that online dating apps help them connect with people they would not have met otherwise. However, a similar proportion feel that online dating is disrupting traditional dating norms, with about half believing their families would not accept a partner they met online.
Economic obstacles cloud optimism
While young Africans embrace digital tools and increasingly affordable internet access, they also face persistent challenges. The survey highlights economic issues, such as the lack of well-paying jobs and widespread corruption, which continue to limit young people’s opportunities and cloud their outlook for the future. Despite these hurdles, Africa’s youth remain eager to harness the potential of technology, particularly in the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), to build a more prosperous future.
Closing the digital divide
The survey also underscores a desire to bridge the urban-rural divide in internet access. Around 77 percent of respondents believe that free internet should be available in all major cities, while 76 percent advocate for expanded access in rural areas. Rural connectivity remains limited, yet there is a strong call among young people to ensure digital access is extended to remote regions. Ichikowitz emphasised the importance of this expansion, noting that bridging the data divide is essential for Africa’s youth to fully participate in the global digital economy.
Global perspectives and the future of African youth
The findings of the African Youth Survey align with broader discussions on Africa’s digital future, including recent projections by major tech companies like Google. Recently, Google declared the next decade Africa’s ‘digital decade,’ driven by advances in AI, digital infrastructure, and expanding internet access. As Ichikowitz noted, ‘Reduced costs and greater data access are empowering Africa’s next generation to embrace STEM education and compete with their peers globally for future opportunities.’
Yet, as connectivity and technological tools become more accessible, challenges such as misinformation, online safety, and ethical considerations surrounding AI will continue to demand attention. The survey’s results suggest that while young Africans are optimistic about the benefits of digital growth, they remain cautious about the risks that accompany these advancements.
A growing influence in global discussions
As the largest study of its kind on African youth, the African Youth Survey has become an important resource for understanding the perspectives and aspirations of young people across the continent. Conducted by PSB Insights, the survey covers key areas such as internet connectivity, economic challenges, and evolving social norms. With the addition of six new countries, the survey now offers an even more comprehensive look at Africa’s rising generation and its hopes for the future.
As African Youth Day is celebrated, the survey’s insights highlight the importance of tackling issues like digital inequality and misinformation. By empowering the continent’s youth to harness digital tools safely and effectively, Africa is poised to make strides in shaping a brighter, more connected future for its next generation.
