Unfulfilled Promises, Elusive Prosperity Despair Ethiopia's Youth

Jul 22 , 2023
By Solomon Debebe

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The sweeping optimism and ardent hopes that permeated Ethiopia four years ago have dwindled into disillusionment, with promises made to the country's youth remaining unfulfilled. While leaders once vowed to bolster the country's prosperity and deliver a hopeful future, the reality remains one of stark contrast.

Four years ago, several Ethiopians were abuzz with the anticipation of change. The youth yearned for an overhaul of policies that would elevate their living conditions, invigorate their hopes, and economically empower them.

The common belief was that any attempt to advocate for this much-needed policy shift was not only noble but also worthwhile, even if met with fierce criticism or pushback from those at the helm of the state at the time.

This anticipation reached a fever pitch when Ethiopia's incumbent Prime Minister took office; his speeches resounded with promises of nationwide growth, development, and progress. He was welcomed with enthusiasm and high expectations from Gondar to Mekelle and Hawassa to Jimma. His assurances also captivated international audiences when he travelled to the United States, Germany, and Dubai, among other locations.

However, the civil war and the worldwide havoc wreaked by COVID-19 began to reshape the trajectory of his promises. The distribution of coveted properties in Addis Abeba and prime green areas in numerous villages skewed towards the privileged few.

These actions hinted at an abdication of the principles of fairness and justice, as his administration seemed to prioritise favouritism over youth development, a course that has been widely criticised as being premature and myopic.

Ethiopia's youth, a segment of society known for their discipline and piety, continue languishing in limbo. Their patience with the Prime Minister's ambitious promises has now stretched over. Instead of formulating and implementing detailed policy frameworks that might uplift them, the administration seems more focused on mobilising them to battle the pervasive conflicts threatening the country's stability.

The failure to deliver on earlier promises has led to an alarming sense of despair among the youth.

In a poignant testament to this, some youths were seen volunteering to participate in the Russia-Ukraine war instead of pursuing their studies in Ethiopia's universities. This seemingly inexplicable choice starkly highlights the sense of hopelessness that has engulfed a generation that was once teeming with dreams and aspirations.

The administration's belated response to conflict-related crises, coupled with its sluggishness in addressing the country's strategic priorities, has exacerbated the situation. While the Prime Minister's tree-planting initiatives might symbolise growth and renewal, they are hardly the panacea for the monumental challenges that Ethiopia currently faces.

Recently, the grim reality of the employment landscape for the youth was underscored during a parliamentary discussion. A Finance Minister's declaration that the public service would have no new job opportunities for fresh graduates sent shockwaves.

Contrasting Ethiopia's seemingly stagnant situation with the proactive measures being undertaken by other countries brings the problem into sharper zoom.

Post-COVID-19 China, despite grappling with its youth unemployment crisis, has outlined ambitious plans prioritising youth employment. Similarly, Eastern Cape Premier in South Africa, Oscar Mabuyane, has urged departments to favour young job seekers and bolster their representation in public sector roles.

Governments are acknowledging the importance of equipping the younger generation to meet the challenges of the 21st Century. An exemplar of this is former U.S. President Barack Obama, who signed laws to foster innovation and creativity in the public sector.

Such strategic decisions aim to draw fresh talent into roles that will shape the future of a nation.

Ethiopia's leaders have to reconsider the current path. Policymakers should proactively create adequately funded internships that provide a platform for youthful engagement and contribution to national development.

It is crucial to design national-level policy options that promote productive livelihoods for the youth, thus helping transform the country before it is too late. In the end, it is the youth who are its future.

Acknowledging their importance today is key to ensuring a prosperous Ethiopia tomorrow. Ignoring their potential could result in a national loss, for a country that fails to invest in its youth is one that gambles with its future.

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PUBLISHED ON Jul 22,2023 [ VOL 24 , NO 1212]

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