Vol 23(1): 157–181. DOI: 10.1177/0956247810396986 www.sagepublications.com Youth and “the hood ” – livelihoods and neighbourhoods

ABSTRACT This paper describes how large youth populations in low- and middle-income countries, particularly those living in urban areas, are being demonized as potential threats to stability and development (the “youth bulge”). This negative perception is a self-fulfilling prophecy, as by neglecting or mistreating youth, they may become the very threats the proponents of the status quo fear most. In most of Africa, the majority are no longer in school, are unable to get jobs, often live in informal settlements and are out of touch with any organization at all. Meanwhile, national efforts to address their issues are confined to a ministry with minimal budget and influence. Usually, only small groups of the most educated, mainly male and older youth are reached, who are then hailed in international meetings as the creative resourceful leaders of tomorrow (or today). This paper argues that new, creative, holistic and youth-led programmes are needed to enable the majority of youth to participate as full citizens in the development of their communities and society as a whole. Young people need to have their own institutions at community level that provide a focus for their education, recreation and entrepreneurial activities, as well interaction with other organizations and involvement in and activism on issues that matter to them at local, national and international level. Such youth institutions should be supported by local as well as national governments, with sufficient funding and authority to ensure that youth are integrated and involved in all sectors. Africa’s development depends on it