African young people are nowadays living a hard time. Although the growth predictions of the continent are good, 40 million young people are estimated to be out of work and many more in inadequate employment. African Economic Outlook estimates that 53 million of Africa's 200 million young people between the age of 15 and 24 are in unstable employment and 40 million young Africans are out of work. However, while 18 million of them are looking for a job, 22 million have already given
up.
African Economic Outlook also found that only a minority of young working Africans have a 'good" job. Wage employment in the formal sector concerns only 7% of youth in low-income countries and 10% in middle-income countries. Others fall in categories defined by international Labour Organization as
'vulnerable employment', including self-employment and unpaid work (such as family farming).
Surprisingly, Africa's poorest countries have less employed youth than the better-off countries. As countries grow richer, people start buying new brands away from local products that used to provide a source of revenue for many Africans. So, how can we remove obstacles for local businesses?
First, there is the attitude of government towards small businesses. The fate of Tunisian vegetable seller Mohamed Bouazizi is an example of the importance of this. The government can support social insurance adapted to the needs of small businesses such as Bouazizi's. With social security, a small business owner can invest his earnings into his business instead of having to save them at home in preparation for sudden costs like health care of family members.
Secondly, many small entrepreneurs in Africa do not have access to the money that could allow them to grow the business. Obtaining very small sums of money has become easier thanks to microfinance; but obtaining larger loans from banks is very difficult. Most banks are not interested. They make money more easily with bigger firms.
Thirdly, better services could do a lot. For example, a stable electricity supply would allow many to start small productions enterprises. Many young people in Africa suffer from not having the right skills.
They have been to school even university but did not obtain the practical skill that employers want. Many firms are looking for young people with technical skills to operate machines but cannot find them. At the same time Africa has the highest number of students in the humanities and social sciences of any region in the world. Many young people with a university education cannot find work.
Finally, improving job creation existing activities is important. The greatest potential for inclusive growth may actually be found in agriculture and agro industry: beyond the well-known examples of export sectors such as cashew nut and cut flowers, the next big thing may well be African local and regional markets, which are expanding with the steady demographic growth, urbanization, and rising income levels.
B) Choose the right answer between a, b or c (1x2=2 marks)
7. According to the African Economic Outlook, the number of unemployed young peopie in Africa turns around :
a) 53 millions
b) 40 millions
• d) 18 millions 8.
Many small businessmen lack financial support because :
a) banks do not give them much money b) they don't borrow money from banks c) they don't pay back the money
C) Complete the passage below with words taken from the indicated paragraphs of the text (0,5x3=1.5 marks)
The problem of youth unemployment exists everywhere, but it is more acute in the African continent where a large number of young people are in search of a (9).
(P.1).
According to the African Economic Outlook, few young people have a good job. Although banks are numerous, they don't permit all business owners to get the amount of (10).
(P.4) they need to invest in a project. Another problem is that most young graduates don't have the (11)
(P.5) that many employers are looking for.
D) Complete the following chart with information from the text. Be as
concise as possible (0.5 x 3 = 1.5 marks)
Suggested solutions to help local business and promote employment
12.,
13.
14.
Il) COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE (6 marks)
E) The following is an extract of an interview between a journalist and Assane, a young unemployed graduate. Complete it meaningfully.
(0,5x4=2 marks)
Journalist: (15).
_any job so far? (you / not to find)?