Faced with persistent unemployment, a lack of opportunities, and daily insecurity, a growing number of young Guineans are turning to high-risk, often illegal, activities in the hope of quickly improving their living conditions. This alarming reality raises questions about the root causes of this social decline.

Despair as a driving force

With youth unemployment estimated at over 60%, most graduates leave university without clear prospects. The public sector is saturated, and the private sector remains limited. As a result, many are forced, out of necessity, to turn to informal or illegal activities—trafficking, online scams, illegal migration, the illicit resale of goods, or even “suspicious deliveries” at airports.

“When you have nothing, and you see other young people making it quickly, you end up thinking that the risk is worth it,” confides a young resident of Sonfonia.

Social media, showcases of false success

Social media has amplified the phenomenon. Between appearances of wealth, unscrupulous “influencers” and artificial lifestyles, many young people identify with models based on quick and effortless success.

This race for visible success pushes some to cross the line, convinced that the end justifies the means.

A failing management system

The lack of institutional support is also highlighted. Employment support programs, often poorly targeted or difficult to access, leave a large majority of young people without training or start-up capital.

Vocational training centers lack resources, while support for local entrepreneurship remains insufficient.

Solutions yet to be invented

To stem the phenomenon, specialists are calling for an overhaul of public integration policies.

The creation of decent jobs, the promotion of technical training, and the highlighting of authentic and ethical success stories appear to be urgent solutions.

“It is not a lack of ambition that kills young people, it is a lack of opportunities,” emphasizes a sociologist from Conakry.

A choice of survival, not delinquency

Behind these risky “businesses” often lie stories of survival, not crime.

Understanding this reality means recognizing that before being at fault, these young people are victims of a blocked system, of a country where talent is not always enough to succeed.