A recent 2026 African Youth Survey highlights a significant lack of confidence among Kenyan youths regarding the nation’s economic future. Among 16 African countries surveyed, Kenya ranked lowest in optimism about employment prospects and the country’s economic direction.

According to the report, 79% of Kenyan youth aged 18 to 24 believe the economy is moving in the wrong direction. This pessimism stems from rising unemployment, household financial pressures, and limited livelihood opportunities.

Key Findings

  • Kenya has the lowest youth confidence in Africa concerning economic prospects and job availability.
  • It ranks second highest in economic pessimism after Mozambique (82%), followed by Nigeria (76%) and South Africa (74%).
  • Nearly 90% of new jobs created in 2025 were in the informal sector, which often offers low and unstable incomes.
  • Unemployment and poverty are viewed by 70% of Kenyan youth as the biggest threats to community safety.
  • Graduates face a mismatch between acquired skills and available jobs, with over 123,000 university graduates in 2024 intensifying job market pressures.

Context and Implications

Despite some recovery in manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism post-pandemic, these sectors have struggled to generate sufficient formal employment due to weak demand and high operational costs. The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics reported 101,000 formal jobs created in 2025, improving from 76,000 in 2024, but still insufficient to meet the growing number of job seekers.

The survey also notes a decline in youth optimism since 2024, contrasting trends in countries like Ethiopia, Ghana, and Zambia where confidence has improved. This decline is attributed to economic strain on households, softer growth forecasts, and regional instability.

Furthermore, Kenyan youth hold a largely negative view of Africa’s broader economic direction, with 70% expressing doubts about the continent’s future compared to lower percentages in other nations.

Calls for Action

The report emphasizes the urgent need to create stable employment pathways, protect essential services, and build international partnerships to foster inclusive growth. It urges policymakers to address the disconnect between education outcomes and labor market demands to harness the potential of Kenya’s youthful population.