How young people in informal settlements can be empowered

The Future Depends on Youth

"The problems faced by young people today are the problems faced by everyone tomorrow," said CFK Africa Executive Director Jeffrey Okoro . "On International Youth Day, we must all take a moment to think critically about how we can support youth in our communities and remove barriers that hinder their success, enabling them to build healthy and vibrant lives."

This statement highlights the crucial role youth play in shaping the future. In many informal settlements, young people face significant challenges, including extreme poverty, lack of quality healthcare and education, malnutrition, and poor sanitation. These factors make them vulnerable to preventable diseases and other negative health outcomes. Addressing these issues is not only a moral obligation but also an investment in a better tomorrow for all.

The Reality of Youth in Informal Settlements

Informal settlements are home to millions of young people worldwide. These communities often lack basic infrastructure, leaving residents with limited access to essential services. Young people in these environments encounter various obstacles that hinder their personal and professional growth. The key challenges include:

1. Limited Access to Quality Education

Education is a fundamental right, yet many young people in informal settlements struggle to access quality schooling. Schools are often overcrowded, underfunded, and lack essential resources such as books, trained teachers, and proper facilities. As a result, many youth drop out early, limiting their opportunities for economic mobility.

2. Poor Healthcare Services

Inadequate healthcare infrastructure means that young people in these areas are more susceptible to illnesses. Preventable diseases such as malaria, respiratory infections, and malnutrition-related conditions are prevalent. Without proper medical support, these issues can escalate, impacting not just individual well-being but also the broader community’s productivity and stability.

3. Unemployment and Economic Hardships

The lack of educational opportunities directly contributes to high unemployment rates. With few job opportunities available, many young people turn to informal work, which often pays meager wages and lacks job security. This economic instability makes it difficult for them to break the cycle of poverty.

4. Poor Sanitation and Hygiene

Sanitation remains a pressing issue in informal settlements. Limited access to clean water and proper waste disposal contributes to the spread of diseases. Young people, particularly girls, suffer the most, as poor sanitation affects their school attendance and overall health.

5. Social and Mental Health Challenges

Growing up in extreme poverty can take a significant toll on mental health. Many youth in informal settlements experience stress, anxiety, and depression due to financial struggles, family pressures, and lack of social support systems. Without mental health resources, these issues often go unaddressed, leading to long-term consequences.

CFK Africa’s Approach to Youth Empowerment

To address these challenges, CFK Africa has developed four key models aimed at supporting young people in informal settlements:

1. Education and Leadership Development

Providing quality education and leadership programs empowers young people with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed. Scholarships, mentorship programs, and vocational training help equip youth with tools to secure better employment opportunities and contribute positively to society.

2. Healthcare and Nutrition Support

Accessible healthcare services ensure that preventable diseases are controlled, improving overall community health. Initiatives such as mobile clinics, health awareness programs, and nutritional support play a vital role in enhancing young people's well-being.

3. Economic Empowerment and Job Creation

Entrepreneurship training and job placement programs enable young people to gain financial independence. By equipping them with skills in technology, business management, and other industries, they can secure stable employment or start their own businesses, breaking the cycle of poverty.

4. Improved Sanitation and Community Development

Investing in proper sanitation facilities, clean water access, and waste management systems leads to healthier communities. Hygiene awareness campaigns also help educate young people on maintaining better health standards.

The Role of Society in Supporting Youth

Solving these issues requires collective action from governments, non-profits, businesses, and individuals. Policies that promote better education, healthcare access, and job creation are essential. Additionally, investing in youth empowerment programs can create a ripple effect, improving communities as a whole.

A Call to Action: Investing in Our Future

Supporting young people today ensures a stable, prosperous future for all. It is crucial to remove barriers that limit their potential and provide them with opportunities to build healthy and fulfilling lives. Whether through advocacy, volunteering, or financial contributions, everyone has a role to play in empowering the next generation.

By addressing these challenges and implementing sustainable solutions, we can create a world where youth in informal settlements are no longer trapped in cycles of poverty but are instead given the tools to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.