Abstract
This paper explores the complexities and contradictions surrounding youth leadership for development (YLD) in Africa. While there is a growing emphasis on cultivating young leaders for the continent's future, the paper argues that the current modalities of YLD often reinforce existing power structures and perpetuate inequalities rather than genuinely empowering youth. It critically examines the dominant narratives and practices within YLD initiatives, highlighting how they can inadvertently sideline marginalized youth, promote a depoliticized understanding of leadership, and fail to address the root causes of underdevelopment. The paper draws on case studies and theoretical frameworks to deconstruct the challenges faced by young leaders in Africa and proposes alternative approaches that prioritize authentic youth participation, systemic change, and a more inclusive vision of leadership for sustainable development.
Keywords
Youth leadership, African development, Youth empowerment, Inequality, Marginalization, Leadership development, Critical youth studies
Full Text
This paper explores the complexities and contradictions surrounding youth leadership for development (YLD) in Africa. While there is a growing emphasis on cultivating young leaders for the continent's future, the paper argues that the current modalities of YLD often reinforce existing power structures and perpetuate inequalities rather than genuinely empowering youth. It critically examines the dominant narratives and practices within YLD initiatives, highlighting how they can inadvertently sideline marginalized youth, promote a depoliticized understanding of leadership, and fail to address the root causes of underdevelopment. The paper draws on case studies and theoretical frameworks to deconstruct the challenges faced by young leaders in Africa and proposes alternative approaches that prioritize authentic youth participation, systemic change, and a more inclusive vision of leadership for sustainable development.