A new Afrobarometer survey has revealed that half of Malawi’s youth are unemployed and actively searching for work, with a similar number considering emigration in search of better prospects.
The survey which was conducted in August 2024 by the Centre for Social Research at the University of Malawi has revealed deep economic frustrations among the country’s youth.
According to the findings, only 8% of young Malawians are employed, 5% in part-time roles and just 3% in full-time jobs. Meanwhile, 53% reported being jobless and actively looking for work.
The survey also reveals a growing desire among the youth to leave the country. Over half (51%) of respondents in the 18–35 age group said they have thought about emigrating, compared to just 24% of citizens aged 56 and above.
Of those considering emigration, 56% cited the search for better employment opportunities as their main reason, while 33% said they were driven by poverty or economic hardship.