Introduction
The West continues to exert a powerful fascination over a large proportion of Africa’s youth. It is often perceived as a paradise where success is guaranteed, and opportunities abound. Conversely, Africa is seen as a hindrance to fulfilment, a continent plagued by unemployment, corruption, and instability. This vision pushes many young people to abandon everything to try the adventure of exile, sometimes risking their lives. But once they arrive, many discover a reality that is far different from their expectations.
The Myth of a Better Future Elsewhere
In the collective imagination, Europe and America are often idealised. Social networks, embellished diaspora stories, and the media convey the image of a prosperous West, where everything seems accessible. Young Africans grow up with the idea that leaving is the only way to succeed. Meanwhile, their own continent seems hostile. Lack of jobs, lack of infrastructure, poor governance, and social injustice fuel a sense of despair. Many no longer believe in a future in Africa and prefer to risk their lives to reach what they see as an Eldorado.
A Perilous Journey with Tragic Consequences
But the road to this dream is strewn with pitfalls. Those who cannot obtain legal visas turn to clandestine routes, taking dangerous routes across the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea. The Sahara becomes a silent tomb for thousands of migrants exhausted by hunger, thirst, etc. And those who manage to reach the coast find themselves crammed onto makeshift boats, abandoned to the sea. Many perish before they even reach European shores. For those who do manage to enter Europe, the welcome they receive is often far from what they expected. Without papers, they are forced to live illegally, exposed to insecurity, discrimination, and deportation. Far from the image of a prosperous and welcoming West, they discover a world where difficulties persist.
Africa: A Continent of Untapped Opportunities
It would be wrong to say that Africa presents no challenges. Unemployment, political instability, and corruption are all very real. Yet the continent is also undergoing a major transformation. The emergence of start-ups, the wealth of natural resources and technological advances offer opportunities that are still under-exploited. Young Africans are succeeding by investing in agriculture, digital technology, culture, and social entrepreneurship. Rather than seeing Africa as an obstacle, it is time to see it as a land of challenges.
Conclusion
Changing mindsets is crucial. Moving abroad is no guarantee of success, and the hardships of exile can be harder than those in the country of birth. It is time for Africa’s youth to explore local opportunities, to fight for a prosperous continent, and to contribute to its development. Ultimately, El Dorado is not a geographical location, but a state of mind. It is built wherever you decide to invest your energy, intelligence and ambition.
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