Economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa is expected to increase from 3.5 percent in 2024 to 3.8 percent in 2025 and further growth to 4.4 percent through 2026-2027. Improved terms of trade are helping to stabilise local currencies, but real income per capita is only set to rise slightly, leaving extreme poverty largely unchallenged.

By 2050, the region is projected to have over 620-million more working-age individuals. This demographic shift calls for innovative and transformative approaches to job creation, as current growth doesn't significantly lead to wage employment. To tackle these issues, foundational infrastructure and skills, a favourable business environment, and good governance are essential.

Addressing the constraints to the private sector development opens the door for productive sectors of the economy to grow and generate quality employment, including but not limited to agribusiness, tourism, and healthcare, among others. With the right approach, Sub-Saharan Africa can establish a vibrant job market. This would help meet the needs of its growing labour force.

Report by the World Bank Group