Unemployment remains a critical issue across Africa, particularly affecting young people. Unemployment is a top concern for individuals aged 18 to 35, as highlighted by Afrobarometer, with many expressing dissatisfaction over government management of the economy.
Annually, between 8 and 11 million young people enter the job market, but only about 3 million formal jobs are created, widening the gap. South Africa, the continent’s most industrialised nation, faces one of the highest youth unemployment rates, with 61% of people aged 15 to 24 unable to secure employment.
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The consequences are widespread: economic stagnation, increased poverty and inequality, higher crime rates, and political instability. Additionally, high unemployment drives migration, leading to a brain drain that hampers development efforts. Addressing these issues is crucial for Africa’s long-term growth and stability.
According to Statista, Here are 10 Africa’s countries with the highest joblessness rates
1. South Africa – 29.83%
South Africa tops the list with the highest unemployment rate in Africa, reaching nearly 30%. This has been a long-standing issue, with the youth being the most affected. High unemployment rates in South Africa have led to increased poverty levels and growing economic disparity.
2. Djibouti – 27.85%
Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa, follows closely behind South Africa with an unemployment rate of 27.85%. The nation’s small economy faces challenges in creating enough jobs to accommodate its growing population.
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3. Eswatini – 24.65%
Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) has an unemployment rate of 24.65%, making it one of the countries with the highest joblessness on the continent. A lack of diversification in the economy and limited industrialisation has contributed to this issue.
4. Gabon – 21.35%
In Gabon, the unemployment rate is at 21.35%. Despite being rich in natural resources, the country struggles with creating enough employment opportunities, especially for young graduates, leading to high levels of joblessness.
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5. Congo – 21.26%
The Republic of the Congo has an unemployment rate of 21.26%. Economic instability and the reliance on oil have limited job creation in other sectors, resulting in high unemployment, especially among the youth.
6. Botswana – 20.72%
Botswana, traditionally seen as one of Africa’s more stable economies, has an unemployment rate of 20.72%. While the country has a strong mining sector, it faces challenges in creating sufficient employment opportunities across other industries.
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7. Somalia – 20.53%
Somalia’s unemployment rate stands at 20.53%. Political instability, ongoing conflict, and the absence of adequate infrastructure have hindered the creation of new jobs in this war-torn nation.
8. Namibia – 20.37%
Namibia’s unemployment rate of 20.37% reflects the country’s struggle to develop enough job opportunities for its citizens. The government faces challenges in addressing high levels of poverty and inequality, especially in rural areas.
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9. Libya – 20.07%
Libya’s unemployment rate is 20.07%, a result of years of political instability following the fall of Colonel Gaddafi’s regime. The lack of security and infrastructure development has slowed job creation in the country.
10. Sudan – 18.05%
Sudan rounds out the list with an unemployment rate of 18.05%. The nation has faced prolonged conflict and political challenges, which have severely affected economic growth and job creation.
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