The World Bank annual meetings 2025 heavily focused on Africa’s jobs crisis. And rightly so.
Roughly 12 million young Africans enter the labor market every year yet only about 3 million new formal wage jobs are created, leaving millions without a clear path into decent work.
Closing this gap requires roughly tripling the current pace of formal job creation over the coming decades. But Africa’s development and job strategies often overlook one of its most powerful engines of work and income: the creative economy.
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About the author
James Ladi Williams
James Ladi Williams is founder and president of Akadá, a Washington, D.C.-based strategy advisory firm. Previously, he advised governments, foundations, and private sector leaders on economic development, workforce strategy, and inclusive growth across roles at McKinsey & Company, the Urban Institute, and the New York City Mayor's Office for Economic Opportunity.
