The Call for New Leadership
Africa is sitting on a ticking time bomb of leadership age, with a staggering average of 78.5 years among its national leaders. This demographic crisis isn’t just a quirky stat; it’s a key player in the game of underdevelopment plaguing the continent. Young folks everywhere seem to agree: it’s time to pass the torch! And that’s the rallying cry echoing across the continent as countries gear up for elections, especially Nigeria, the largest nation in Africa, just around the corner.
Old Guard, Meet the New Brigade
Pushing out the wrinkled political dinosaurs may seem as easy as herding cats, but there are challenges. A glaring issue is the scarcity of youth in leadership roles. With opportunities often snagged by an aging elite, our vibrant young citizens are left strapped for the essential tools needed to effectively compete. Moreover, the exodus of youth to other lands in search of greener pastures is chipping away at the pool of potential leaders, making the competition even more uneven.
Blockchain: A New Dawn for Innovation
Enter Blockchain technology—a shiny beacon for a generation eager to break free from the chains of outdated systems. Many of the startups driving this digital revolution are helmed by youth aged 20 to 45, showcasing a refreshing departure from the traditional avenues of power. With their nimble fingers and fresh ideas, young Africans are forging a path toward innovation, with Blockchain as their secret weapon.
Youth-Led Movements and Awareness Drives
Rallying the troops is crucial for the cause! Groups from across Africa are mobilizing to spread the word. Recently, the Dash Squad in Nigeria organized a lively two-day music and cultural festival that drew about 800 attendees. With the event buzzing with beats and blockchain, participants had hands-on experience setting up Dash wallets and engaging in transactions using digital currency. Event organizer Oluwajuwon Micheal exclaimed:
“We opened a total of 300 new Dash wallets and also sent [each] of them Dash worth about $5…”
They aren’t just learning; they’re also doing—practically spending and trading with the currency!
The Ongoing Revolution
Meanwhile, rising stars like the Cryptography Development Initiative of Nigeria (CDIN), led by the indefatigable Adeolu Fadele, are passionately pushing for Blockchain’s role in development. Their journey commenced with an inaugural conference in November 2017, and they continue to drive campaigns focusing on education and collaboration with government and institutions in pursuit of practical implementation of these technologies.
Other vibrant organizations sprouting up include eBitcoinics and the Blockchain Nigeria User Group; both fostering a sense of community and shared values among youth as they claim their spot in the leadership scene.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future?
Though the youth’s journey toward relevance in leadership seems akin to climbing Everest in flip-flops, there’s a flicker of hope that shines through. With a tech-driven mindset and a slew of blockchains at their fingertips, the younger generation is no longer relegated to the corners. A promising future for Africa is on the horizon, ready to be molded by those who truly deserve it—the youth!
