Investments

Financially confident youth: Africa's greatest investment

The African Development Bank projects that, by 2050, one in four workers globally will be African. With over 60% of the population of the continent under the age of 25, Africa is positioned as the world’s largest emerging pool of young talent globally. However, without the financial confidence, knowledge and opportunities needed to unlock this potential, Africa’s demographic dividend risks becoming a liability rather than a transformative economic advantage.

Financial confidence is not just about saving money, but also about knowing how to shape your future by making smart and informed choices.

Why financial confidence matters

In South Africa, youth unemployment remains a national crisis. According to the latest 2026 labour statistics released by Statistics South Africa, the youth unemployment rate rose to 45,8% in the first quarter of 2026. Many young people leave school or university without the financial literacy and practical money-management skills needed to build secure futures.

At the same time, the digital economy is opening new doors and creating opportunities that have the potential to transform lives. To truly thrive in this evolving environment, however, young people must be equipped not only with skills, but also with the financial confidence, knowledge and resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges and seize the opportunities ahead.

How Sanlam helps families build financial confidence

Sanlam has long recognised that financial empowerment starts at home. Parents and families play a crucial role in shaping financially confident young people, and Sanlam offers solutions to support this journey:

Sanlam education plans: Helping parents save for their children’s education, ensuring access to opportunities that build lifelong skills.
Sanlam savings solutions: Teaching young people the value of saving early, with flexible products that grow with them.
Sanlam investments: Providing families with tools to build wealth and model financial discipline for the next generation.
Sanlam financial literacy initiatives: Equipping young people with practical knowledge to budget, save and invest wisely.

Africa’s youth are already innovating – coding apps, launching businesses and reshaping industries. Now imagine the impact if every young person had the financial confidence to turn those ideas into sustainable ventures. The outcome would be transformative: inclusive growth, resilient communities and prosperity that endures for generations.

By combining financial products with education and mentorship, families can give their children the tools to thrive. Financial confidence is the greatest gift you can offer your child. Partner with Sanlam today to secure their education, grow their savings and build a foundation for lifelong success.

Speak to a Sanlam financial adviser now and co-create a financially confident future for Africa’s youth.

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