African leaders finds joy in the suffering of their own citizens, especially the Youth

The frustration among Africa’s youth towards their political leaders has reached a boiling point. Many young Africans feel abandoned, believing that their leaders are indifferent to their plight and even take pleasure in their struggles. This sentiment reflects a disturbing trend where those in power seem more interested in maintaining their grip on authority than in advancing the welfare of their nations.

Across the continent, high unemployment rates, lack of affordable housing, and limited access to quality healthcare and education have left millions of young Africans struggling. While leaders speak of ambitious visions for national development and pan-African unity, the reality for the average citizen is often one of hardship and disenfranchisement. For the youth, who make up a large portion of the population in many African countries, this disparity feels especially acute.

Protests and youth-led movements have surged across African countries in recent years, from Nigeria’s #EndSARS #FixtheCountry campaign in Ghana, Kenyan riot to the Sudanese revolution. These movements, sparked by demands for basic rights and an end to government oppression, have frequently been met with a heavy hand. The harsh government crackdowns on peaceful demonstrations indicate that leaders may feel threatened by the very people they claim to serve.

In addition, economic policies and priorities seem misaligned with the urgent needs of the youth. Resources are often allocated to political ventures or initiatives that do not address the immediate needs of the population. Infrastructure projects, for example, while sometimes beneficial, are often criticized for lacking transparency or for their focus on high-profile ventures that neglect essential services like healthcare and education.

The disconnect has fueled a growing disillusionment among the youth, with many seeing their leaders as out of touch and primarily self-serving. The frequent mismanagement of resources, corruption, and the use of power to suppress dissent signal to young Africans that their well-being is not the priority. The cycle of broken promises has left many young people feeling that African leaders take pleasure or at least comfort in the status quoa situation where they can maintain control without meaningful opposition.

As this perception spreads, the hope for a brighter future in Africa dims for many, replaced instead by frustration and resentment. Analysts warn that unless leaders start listening to and addressing the demands of their citizens, especially the youth, the continent may see an intensification of unrest. African leaders have a duty to create a legacy of positive change; failure to do so could ultimately jeopardize the stability and future of the continent itself.

AMN | Anochie’s Report | Accra.