A person welding./ PHOTO ; Pexel
The Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at Wits Business School has released new research showing how Africa’s non-profit sector is helping to create dignified and fulfilling work for young people across the continent.
The report, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, is the first large study to look at this issue across Africa.
It is titled Contributions of the Non-Profit Sector to the Creation of Dignified and Fulfilling Work for Young People in Africa: A Synthesis Literature Review and draws on evidence from 17 African countries.
The review was carried out with African research networks and institutions.
It highlights the sector’s role in supporting young people, points out where gaps remain, and suggests areas where policy can make a difference.
Importantly, it also includes the voices of young people, reflecting their views on the kind of work they need and aspire to.
A Growing Youth Population
Africa has the youngest population in the world. More than 70 percent of its people are under the age of 30, and by 2050, the youth population is expected to reach 850 million.
This presents both opportunities and challenges. With the right support, young people can help drive social and economic change.
But high levels of unemployment mean that new solutions are urgently needed.
“The findings are clear: the non-profit sector is not just filling gaps but actively shaping new pathways to dignified work for Africa’s youth,” said Prof Bhekinkosi Moyo, Director of CAPSI.
“With the support of the Mastercard Foundation, this research underscores the potential of collaborative approaches to address youth unemployment.”
Report Highlights
The study shows that non-profit organisations (NPOs), including social enterprises, are already contributing in several ways.
They provide direct jobs, skills training, education, and entrepreneurial support for young people.
They are also working in key areas such as education, agriculture, ICT, health, tourism, human rights, and the creative industries.
At the same time, the report notes that young people continue to face barriers, such as limited access to finance, gaps between skills and available jobs, and exclusion from decision-making.
While research on the sector’s contribution is still at an early stage, the review finds clear evidence that NPOs are making a meaningful difference.
The report recommends that NPOs:
- strengthen their partnerships with governments, businesses, and philanthropists;
- diversify their funding to remain sustainable;
- advocate for policies that expand work opportunities for women, people with disabilities, and young people in rural areas;
- and help young people prepare for digital and technology-driven work, including the use of artificial intelligence.
Next Steps
CAPSI plans to follow this continental review with country-specific studies. The first set of national reports will focus on Southern Africa in 2025.
These will provide more detailed insights that can guide national programmes and policies.
In addition, CAPSI will host a webinar series to share findings and promote dialogue.
The webinars will bring together researchers, youth groups, non-profit organisations, government representatives, businesses, and development partners.
A Shared Responsibility
The study underlines the importance of recognising the non-profit sector as a partner in tackling unemployment.
By combining service delivery with advocacy and innovation, NPOs are helping young people find and create meaningful work.
“The evidence shows that young people are not passive beneficiaries,” said Prof Moyo.
“They are innovators, leaders, and active participants in shaping the continent’s future. Our role as researchers, policymakers, and practitioners is to support them with the right structures and opportunities.”
As Africa’s youth population continues to grow, the question of how to ensure dignified and fulfilling work for millions of young people will remain central.
This new research points to the non-profit sector as an important part of the answer.
About CAPSI
The Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at Wits Business School works to grow knowledge and practice in philanthropy and social investment across Africa.
About the Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation partners with organisations to enable young people in Africa and Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work.
