Overview
- The Ichikowitz Family Foundation’s African Youth Survey, released July 29, found about 95% of young Africans view China’s influence positively while India’s ally rating rose to roughly 90% and Russia’s favourability grew to the low 80s.
- The survey reports the United States remains broadly influential but faces trust deficits, with roughly two thirds saying President Donald Trump’s second term will improve their future and about three in five fearing the U.S. might ignore international law to access resources.
- Young people prioritise practical gains over ideology, with a majority saying their countries should favour partners that deliver trade, investment, infrastructure and jobs rather than countries that share political values.
- The report interviewed 4,901 people aged 18–24 across 16 countries in March 2026 and was conducted by PSB Insights for the Ichikowitz Family Foundation, though one outlet has reported a larger, disputed sample size and wider coverage.
- The findings matter because Africa’s large and growing youth population will shape future trade, security and diplomatic ties and could push governments to pursue transactional partnerships that promise immediate economic benefits.