Young people in Equatorial Guinea are at the heart of a groundbreaking project that aims to boost employment and entrepreneurship. The launch of the Human Capital Development Project in Support of Economic and Social Inclusion (PARCH 1) is set to create thousands of opportunities for youth and women, fostering sustainable growth and economic inclusion.
Running from 2025 to 2030, the project addresses one of the country’s biggest challenges: youth unemployment, currently at 23.5%, and even higher among women at 26.7%. Around 16.5% of young people are unemployed, untrained, or out of school, often entering the informal economy, which increases social tensions.
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To tackle this issue, PARCH 1 will establish two state-of-the-art provincial polytechnic institutes in Bioko Sur and Welé-Nzas. These institutes will offer flexible, market-oriented training in high-demand sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, public works, tourism, and digital technologies. Collaboration with the private sector will ensure that graduates acquire skills that meet real labor market needs.
The project also focuses on entrepreneurship development, expecting young people and women to lead 500 new businesses, contributing to economic diversification and inclusive growth. By combining training, business support, and access to employment, PARCH 1 aims to transform the prospects of Equatorial Guinea’s youth.
Beyond educational infrastructure, the project seeks to reduce unemployment and underemployment, promote economic and social inclusion, and strengthen community stability. Its impact will be particularly felt in Bioko Sur and Welé-Nzas, regions that have historically faced limited access to opportunities. While the €73.27 million funding from the African Development Bank is vital to bring this project to life, the real driver of change will be Equatorial Guinea’s youth, positioned as key agents of economic and social progress.
