Report calls for targeted investments in education, health, and empowerment to unlock economic potential.

YAOUNDE, Cameroon (BG) – A World Bank report has revealed that investing in the untapped potential of adolescent girls in Africa could add $2.4 trillion to the continent’s economy by 2040.

The report, Pathways to Prosperity for Adolescent Girls in Africa, highlights significant economic opportunities that could be unlocked through targeted investments in education, health, and empowerment programs for adolescent girls.

It also outlines the critical need for action, noting that 26% of adolescent girls in Africa are neither working nor attending school, and 27% are married or have a child.

This compares with only 9% of boys in the same age range, emphasizing the gender disparities that impact future economic growth.

“Every dollar invested in adolescent girls’ empowerment can generate more than a tenfold return in economic impact,” the report stated, highlighting the financial benefits of targeted investments.

“By making the right investments now, African countries have a unique opportunity to unlock an additional $2.4 trillion in income by 2040,” the report emphasized.

With appropriate support in education, economic empowerment, and enabling environments, adolescent girls could drive the continent’s economic transformation, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity.

The World Bank report also stressed the need for multisector approaches, including technical skills training, life skills development, and social support.

It encourages governments, development partners, and the private sector to collaborate to create prosperity pathways for Africa’s adolescent girls.

Published in October 2024, the report aims to spark meaningful policy discussions that will enable African nations to tap into the economic potential of their young female population and move toward inclusive growth and resilience.