1,700 Young Africans Died Chasing “Paradise” — Okudzeto Urges Urgent Job Creation
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that over 1,700 young Africans died in 2025 attempting to cross the Mediterranean, warning that Africa must urgently create opportunities at home to stop the deadly migration trend.
Speaking at a continental forum, the minister cited data from the International Organisation for Migration, noting that despite a reported 25% decline in migration numbers, the human cost remains unacceptable.
“These young Africans are not just statistics; they are people searching for opportunity,” he said.
He stressed that while progress is being made in expanding economic opportunities across the continent, African leaders must admit that “the mission is not yet accomplished”.
According to him, many young Africans continue to risk their lives in search of better livelihoods because of limited access to jobs, skills training and economic mobility at home.
Referencing a personal encounter with a young African named Ousmane, whom he described as ambitious and hard-working, the minister questioned why such potential could not be fully realised within Africa.
“What is happening on this continent?” he asked, calling for urgent reforms.
He emphasised that Africa is richly endowed, with 30% of the world’s mineral resources and 60% of global arable land, alongside a rapidly growing youthful population projected to make up a significant share of the global workforce by 2050.
Yet, he noted, a gap remains between Africa’s potential and its reality, one that can only be bridged through deliberate policies focused on job creation, skills development and economic transformation.
He urged leaders to adapt to global shifts driven by technological innovation, evolving financial systems and changing geopolitical dynamics, which are reshaping global trade and capital flows.
According to him, Africa must position itself strategically by strengthening regional integration, enhancing financial systems and attracting investment to create sustainable opportunities for its youth.
Click the link Puretvonline.com | WhatsApp Channel to join the WhatsApp channel
GOT A STORY?
Contact/WhatsApp: +233243201960 or manuelnkansah33@gmail.com
