In the conflict-stricken regions of West and Central Africa, the scale of school closures due to violence and insecurity is staggering. As of June 2024, more than 14,000 schools have been forced to close, disrupting the education of hundreds of thousands of children across countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC). While the humanitarian crisis and its impact on children’s futures are evident, the ripple effects of this situation on the region’s socio-economic environment—affecting businesses, expatriates, and travelers—deserve greater attention.

A Crisis with Long-Term Consequences for the Economy

The closure of schools across West and Central Africa threatens to undermine not only the social fabric but also the economic future of the region. Education is a key driver of economic development, and the systematic denial of education deprives communities of the skilled workforce needed to foster sustainable growth. In regions where school closures are rampant, businesses—both local and international—will face a future talent pool that is undereducated, ill-equipped, and less competitive on a global scale.

For businesses operating in or considering investment in the region, the situation raises significant concerns about the future stability and productivity of the workforce. If the current generation of children remains out of school, local industries could suffer from a shortage of skilled labor, negatively impacting economic growth. International companies, particularly those relying on specialized skills or trained personnel, may find it increasingly difficult to operate in affected areas.

Moreover, the disruptions caused by conflict and the recruitment of children by armed groups foster a vicious cycle of poverty, further exacerbating socio-economic instability. This can have dire consequences for foreign investments, as political instability and security risks tend to deter international capital. Without a well-educated workforce, businesses face higher costs in training and development, or worse, a shrinking market of qualified personnel.

Impact on Expatriates and the Global Workforce

Expatriates working in West and Central Africa, particularly those in sectors such as education, development, and healthcare, are directly affected by the widespread insecurity and school closures. For instance, the humanitarian efforts of NGOs and international organizations, many of which rely on skilled foreign professionals, face heightened challenges. Not only do expatriates contend with security threats, but they must also navigate a landscape where education, a critical aspect of community development, is increasingly jeopardized.

The prolonged absence of educational infrastructure can also deter expatriates with families from relocating to the region. For expatriate families, the availability of quality education is often a major deciding factor when choosing a destination for work. With thousands of schools shuttered, the ability to access safe and reliable schooling for children becomes nearly impossible, reducing the appeal of these regions for foreign professionals.

Furthermore, multinational corporations with operations in these areas will find it harder to recruit and retain expatriate workers, particularly in industries like oil, mining, and agriculture, where foreign expertise is often required. Without the guarantee of safety and stability for their families, expatriates may opt to work in less volatile regions.

Safety Concerns for Travelers

For international travelers, especially those engaging in business or humanitarian work in conflict-affected areas, the school closures serve as a bellwether for the broader instability in the region. The closure of schools due to violence is not an isolated issue but a symptom of broader security challenges. Schools are being occupied by armed groups, and the general lawlessness that accompanies these closures can extend into threats against foreigners and tourists.

Travel advisories issued by governments often highlight these regions as high-risk due to ongoing conflicts. The lack of stable education systems is a red flag for the level of insecurity, and it sends a message that the authorities may not be fully in control of these areas. Tourists and business travelers may find themselves in heightened danger if they venture into areas affected by school closures, not only due to the risk of violent attacks but also because of the breakdown of basic services.

Additionally, the increased recruitment of children by armed groups poses a unique threat. These children, often traumatized and militarized, contribute to the lawlessness of the region, creating environments where the rule of law is difficult to enforce. The potential for violent crime, kidnapping, and other forms of insecurity makes these areas perilous for travelers.

Opportunities for Change and International Involvement

Despite the dire situation, there is still hope. In some regions, such as Mali, the Central African Republic (CAR), and parts of Burkina Faso, school reopenings and a reduction in attacks on education indicate that progress is possible. These positive developments present an opportunity for international businesses, NGOs, and governments to engage in efforts to rebuild and stabilize these regions.

By investing in education initiatives and supporting the reopening of schools, the international community can help foster a more stable environment for future generations. Governments, NGOs, and corporations must work together to ensure that education remains a priority in conflict resolution strategies. This involves not only ending attacks on schools but also providing adequate funding for education programs in conflict-affected regions.

For businesses and expatriates, contributing to these educational efforts is not just a moral imperative but also a long-term investment in the stability and future growth of the region. Education is the foundation of economic development, and by supporting education, businesses help lay the groundwork for a more secure and prosperous environment that will benefit everyone—local populations, expats, and travelers alike.

Conclusion

The school closures in West and Central Africa are more than a humanitarian crisis; they represent a profound socio-economic challenge that will affect businesses, expatriates, and travelers for years to come. The closure of over 14,000 schools has disrupted education for millions of children, threatening to derail the future of the region’s workforce and perpetuate cycles of poverty and instability.

For businesses, the implications are clear: without urgent action to protect education, the region’s economic potential will be severely undermined. Expatriates and travelers must also be aware of the security risks posed by these closures, which signal broader instability. By investing in education and prioritizing its protection, the international community can help ensure that West and Central Africa has a brighter and more stable future.