Oil Wealth, Youth Struggles as Congo Heads to Polls

In the oil-rich Republic of Congo, wealth from oil has not lifted most people, with more than 40% living below the poverty line and youth unemployment high in a country where over 60% are under 25. Ahead of Denis Sassou Nguesso’s bid for another term, young voters cite a tight job market, poor infrastructure, and unaffordable basics, while experts warn that an oil-fueled rentier state hampers diversification and reform. Despite government claims of improving unemployment, many youths remain skeptical or disengaged, hoping for jobs and meaningful change rather than empty promises as the election approaches.