For too long the world sees displaced people and migrants as a problem although, when given the opportunity to work and learn, they can, and have, contributed considerably to enriching their host communities.
We live in a world where migration as well as forced displacement are often seen – through the lenses of racism and xenophobia – as a burden but Africa has an opportunity to flip this narrative. Displaced people, particularly refugees, often portrayed as victims, hold untapped potential that can contribute significantly to the Continent’s growth.
Our recent report at the Amahoro Coalition emphasises the need for a paradigm shift in how we approach refugee integration, focusing on education and employment as the keys to self-reliance and long-term stability.
For too long, forcibly displaced people in Africa have been confined to camps, isolated from the economic and educational opportunities that could transform their lives. This approach not only deprives them of the chance to become self-reliant but also squanders the potential benefits they could bring to their host communities.
The time has come to rethink this outdated model and embrace a more inclusive strategy that leverages the power of education and private sector collaboration.
At Amahoro Coalition, we cannot stress enough the urgent need for the African private sector in conjunction with governments and regional bodies to work together to expand educational and employment opportunities to refugees.
As the largest African convener of the private sector for social impact, and based on our field work in displaced communities across 11 African countries, we know for a fact that this works.
Take the example of Uganda progressive refugee policy; it grants refugees access to land and the right to work. This has generated hundreds of thousands of jobs, lifted many families out of poverty and helped their children access higher levels of education.
Most importantly, this has enabled refugees to contribute to their host country’s economy for many years now. It goes without saying that this is already done at scale, as Uganda hosts over 1.5 million refugees, the largest refugee host country in Africa.
However, these efforts must be scaled up and replicated across the continent. The private sector, in particular, has a critical role to play. By partnering with educational institutions and investing in vocational training programs, businesses can help equip refugees with the skills they need to thrive.
Moreover, by offering internships, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities, the private sector can provide refugees with a pathway to economic independence.
Attitude changes needed
Yet, significant barriers remain. Many refugees face restrictions on their movement and employment, limiting their ability to access opportunities. These challenges must be addressed through policy reforms that remove barriers to refugee mobility and ensure that they have the legal rights and documentation needed to work and study.
Through this report, we are providing a roadmap for action in three key main points. First of all, we are calling for the establishment of information hubs on educational opportunities for refugees.
Second, we are calling for the streamlining of skill development for African refugees including TVETs across regions, and lastly, the expansion of private sector involvement in refugee education and employment.
These recommendations are not just aspirational – they are essential steps toward creating a future where refugees in Africa are no longer seen as a burden, but as valued members of society with the potential to contribute to its growth and development.
Isaac Kwaku Fokuo, Jr is a Ghanaian consultant, investor, and philanthropist. He is the founder and CEO at Botho Emerging Markets Group, and is the founder of the Amahoro Coalition to advance economic inclusion for displaced populations.
