Tuesday, February 7, 2023 – 05:00
The survey showed that the majority of Moroccan youth believe that they are more influenced by Western cultures, especially those of Europe and the United States of America, while another group believes that the influence comes mainly from friends and family. On the other hand, the manifestations of influence differ among the rest of the youth of the African continent.
A study by The African and the Filter Foundation, which identifies what influences the attitudes of young Africans, says that 64 percent of Moroccans believe that the greatest influence comes from Europe and the United States of America, while 60 percent believe that the influence comes from friends and families. On the other hand, 42 percent of Moroccans believe that older people no longer have any influence.
The report is based on a survey of 4,500 people aged 18 to 35 from nine African countries: Egypt, Morocco, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Overall, at the African level, the majority of respondents (57%) believe that popular culture has the greatest influence on African youth, while 45% believe that Western countries and the United States of America have an influence. At the same time, 31 percent believe that politicians are the most influential, and 29 percent believe that society has an impact.
Respondents also said that many negative stereotypes about Africa still exist, as 75 percent believe the stories about Africa being circulated are negative, with this percentage dropping to 58 percent among Moroccans.
Africans interviewed confirmed that these stereotypes have tainted the attitude of the world towards the continent. While 45 percent said that these stereotypes had a negative impact on their own perception, 60 percent said they love their country and continent. On the contrary, only 29 percent of Moroccans believe that life outside their country (Europe or America) can give them more opportunities.
There is no doubt that it is time for Africa to make big strides in business, creativity and innovation; However, perceptions of him are still rooted in stereotypes of poverty, disease, conflict, corruption, and poor leadership.
