Oil Rich, Youth Poor: Congo’s Young People Search for a Better Future

The capital city of Pointe‑Noire buzzes early, with market stalls and street sellers hustling through crowds. Among them is Romain Tchicaya, a 37‑year‑old who once studied management but now sells medicines in small, informal stalls because job prospects are scarce. He says the country’s oil wealth feels distant; the streets of Pointe‑Noire are riddled with potholes and flooding, making daily life hard.

Another example is Brice Makaya, a computer‑science graduate in his forties who cannot secure steady employment. He now lives outside a church, feeling stuck and unable to plan for the future. Their stories echo a larger pattern: in a nation that ranks third in Africa’s oil production, almost half the population lives below the poverty line.

President Denis Sassou Nguesso, 82, is running for another term as Congo heads to the polls. He has repeatedly urged young people to create their own jobs, noting that the civil service cannot absorb everyone. Yet oil still accounts for about 70 % of exports and 40 % of GDP, according to the World Bank. This dependence on a single commodity limits economic diversification and makes the country vulnerable when global oil prices fall.

After the 2014 price crash, Congo’s debt ballooned to more than 90 % of GDP. Although it has been reduced slightly, the nation remains heavily indebted and still feels the shocks of oil price swings. Analysts say that this “rentier” model—where state revenue comes mainly from natural resources—strengthens central power and reduces incentives for structural reform.

Youth unemployment is a pressing issue. The World Bank and ILO report that Congo has one of the highest rates in Central Africa, with most new workers entering informal jobs. Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso claims that the government has lowered unemployment from 44 % to 39 %, but many young people remain skeptical. Students in Brazzaville report that job promises are made at every election, yet opportunities rarely materialise. Some consider studying abroad or joining the army as alternatives, but even public sector jobs are competitive.

The country’s infrastructure problems—frequent power cuts and unreliable water supply—add to everyday hardships. Journalists, for instance, often receive only sporadic payments instead of a steady salary. These conditions fuel frustration and can lead to social unrest, especially among the large youth population under 25.

Political engagement is low. Many young voters see President Nguesso’s long rule as inevitable and feel that voting will not change anything. Opposition parties are fragmented, and the fear of retaliation discourages active participation.

In short, Congo’s natural wealth has not translated into prosperity for its young citizens. Without meaningful job creation, education reform, and political openness, the country risks a growing social crisis.