John Mahama links youth unemployment to extremist recruitment in Africa

President John Dramani Mahama has identified economic exclusion and youth unemployment as critical drivers of insecurity across the African continent. Speaking in Ethiopia while presenting the 2026 Tana State of Peace and Security in Africa Report, the President argued that the lack of economic opportunities makes young people particularly vulnerable to recruitment by extremist and armed groups. He emphasized that peace and security strategies must move beyond military action to address the underlying socio-economic conditions that fuel instability.

During his address at the Tana Forum, President Mahama highlighted the direct correlation between economic marginalization and the rise of insurgencies. He noted that when young individuals are left without viable livelihoods, they become primary targets for radicalization. To counter this, he called for national development plans that prioritize inclusivity and the creation of sustainable economic opportunities for the youth. By integrating economic empowerment into the broader security framework, the President suggested that African nations can build more resilient societies that are less prone to internal conflict.

President Mahama also drew significant attention to the role of women in the continent's peace and development agenda. He specifically criticized the systemic barriers that prevent women from accessing land, which he argued undermines agricultural productivity and long-term stability. Mahama stressed that securing land rights for women is not just a matter of social equity but a strategic necessity for regional food security and conflict prevention. He urged African leaders to reform land ownership policies to ensure women can contribute fully to their respective national economies.

Ultimately, the President advocated for a holistic approach to security that bridges the gap between economic policy and defense strategies. He concluded that lasting peace in Africa can only be achieved if governance structures actively address the grievances of marginalized groups. As the 2026 Tana report outlines the current security landscape, Mahama’s call for inclusive growth serves as a directive for regional bodies and national governments to rethink their security priorities in favor of social and economic investment.