Tanzania, Aug. 3 -- Dar es Salaam. Most young Africans still believe democracy is the best system of government, but a growing majority say the continent needs its own democratic model that reflects African realities, creates jobs and gives young people a stronger voice in leadership.

Those are among the key findings of the African Youth Survey 2026, which found that while 73 percent of respondents said democracy is always preferable to any other form of government, 56 percent believe Western-style democracy is not suitable for Africa.

The survey interviewed 4,901 young people aged 18 to 24 across 16 countries spanning East, West, Central and Southern Africa.

Although support for democratic governance remains strong, respondents said A...