Although Tanzanians of all ages are clamouring for political reform, for the first time young people are taking centre-stage by volunteering as poll monitors, and by debating policies on social media.

“We need new leaders and new faces,” says Christa Christian, 26, a volunteer observer. “But I’m worried because this is the first time in our history that the opposition could have more support than the ruling party.”

All over the developing world, the booming youth population makes young people a key demographic for politicians campaigning for elections. According to the UN’s population fund, there are currently 1.8 billion people aged between 10 and 24 in the world today, with young populations growing fastest in the poorest countries.

Available: http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2015/oct/01/tanzania-youth-prepare-for-key-role-in-pivotal-presidential-poll