Search for jobs drives 50% of Africans considering emigration – Report
The search for employment is emerging as the biggest reason Africans consider leaving their home countries, as economic pressures continue to shape migration decisions across the continent, according to a new Afrobarometer report. The post Search for jobs drives 50% of Africans considering emigration – Report appeared first on Nairametrics .
A new Afrobarometer report reveals that the search for jobs is the leading reason Africans are considering emigration, driven by economic pressures across the continent. The findings are part of Afrobarometer’s African Insights 2026: Beyond Borders report, which analyzes citizens' perspectives on migration, trade, global powers, Africa's representation in international institutions, and climate change across 38 African countries.
Nearly half of Africans, or 45%, have considered emigrating, with 25% stating they have considered it "a lot." The share of Africans considering emigration "a lot" has increased by 40% between 2016/2018 and 2024/2025, rising from 18% to 25%. Among those contemplating emigration, 50% mentioned seeking employment, while 29% cited escaping poverty or economic hardship.
The desire to emigrate is particularly pronounced among young and educated Africans, with 32% of respondents aged 18 to 35 considering leaving "a lot," compared to 11% of those aged above 55. Post-secondary educated Africans were more likely to consider emigration (31%) than those with no formal education (18%). Europe and North America are the primary destinations for Africans who have considered emigrating, while fewer potential emigrants are looking to stay within Africa.
Across the 31 countries with comparable data, the proportion of potential emigrants preferring another African country dropped from 36% in 2016/2018 to 26% in 2024/2025. The report highlights the influence of employment pressures, particularly in Nigeria, on relocation decisions both within and outside the country. Many have embarked on risky journeys in search of better economic opportunities abroad.
Europe, grappling with an ageing population and a growing need for workers, is seeking African workers to fill labor needs across various sectors. Africa, home to the world's youngest and fastest-growing population, remains a primary source of migrants. Migration from Africa to Europe is influenced by economic and demographic factors, with African workers addressing labor shortages in European economies.
Written by urgent.news from Nairametrics's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
