Research shows that unrest, even terrorism, can erupt in poor countries with a surplus of young people and not enough jobs. Can Niger, a once-peaceful sub-Saharan African nation, handle its baby boom?
When the wheels of partnership turn smoothly, Africa can benefit enormously.
EtiAmmos/Shutterstock
Julien Brachet, Institut de recherche pour le développement (IRD)
As in the Mediterranean, travel through the Sahara is difficult and unnecessarily dangerous by increased checks and control.
A refugee family who was evacuated from Libya leave an UNHCR office in Niamey, on November 17, 2017, after being interviewed by protection officers of the French Office of Protection Refugees and Stateless Persons (OFPRA).
Sia Kambou/AFP
Creating more opportunities for young women and girls to work and earn money is a possible solution to early marriages. Subsidising secondary education to keep poorer girls in school is another.
The presence of US troops in Africa must be questioned by governments and citizens.
Emmanuel Braun/Reuters
Until African political systems become less majoritarian and do a better job of protecting the rights of minorities, the true benefits of a democratic government are unlikely to be realised.
Leader of Fulani herdsmen Haruna Usman pictured by Reuters in 2014.
Reuters/Afolabi Sotunde
Attacks by Fulani herdsmen on communities in West Africa are increasing in number and in sophistication. Regional and national authorities must respond promptly to arrest the threat.
Workers on their way to gold mines.
Issa Aboud Yonlihinza