Yemisi Izuora
The October 2025 edition of Africa’s Pulse shows that economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa has maintained momentum amid heightened global policy uncertainty.
Regional activity is poised to expand 3.8 per cent in 2025, up from 3.5 per cent in 2024, and accelerate further to an annual average rate of 4.4 per cent in 2026–27.
Jobs are the main channel through which people reap the benefits of economic growth.
However, most new labor market entrants find work in low-productivity, informal sectors that offer limited prospects for rapid income growth, reduced poverty, and improved social mobility. Wage-paying jobs make up only 24 per cent of employment, and less if Southern Africa is excluded.
Sub-Saharan Africa requires a new growth model anchored in medium-sized and large enterprises, which are critical drivers of productivity and job creation.
Meanwhile the countdown is on for the 2025 Annual Meetings! Kicking off October 13, will gather at World Bank’s headquarters to discuss major global challenges, with a spotlight on jobs.
Over the next decade, 1.2 billion young people in developing countries will become working-age adults. “That’s why job creation is at the center of everything we do. Don’t miss your chance to take part.” World Bank said.