Three out of four young Gambians are contemplating leaving the country to escape growing economic hardship, according to a new report published by research network Afrobarometer.
The findings highlight a deepening crisis of confidence among the country’s youth, with nearly 80% of respondents aged between 18 and 35 stating that The Gambia is heading in the wrong direction.
Despite being better educated than older generations, over half have completed secondary schooling, young people bear the brunt of the nation’s unemployment crisis. Crucial public concerns cited by youth include declining healthcare standards, soaring living costs, rising crime rates, and a severe shortage of jobs.
Public satisfaction with government action on these priorities remains strikingly low. Fewer than 10% of young people surveyed believe the government is doing enough to create job opportunities or stabilise basic prices, driving a growing majority to look for prospects outside their home country.
–ChannelAfrica/Afrobarometer —
