Research evidence points to the multiple forms of deprivation faced by the current generation
of young people in South Africa. Little is known about the way in which these various
deprivations interrelate - and the extent to which they vary from one local area to another.
This paper suggests the adoption of a Multidimensional Poverty Index for Youth as a useful
way to integrate a number of dimensions of deprivation into an aggregate measure that can
then be used to flag variations in aggregate deprivation across local areas of South Africa. The
measure presented draws on the internationally recognized Alkire Foster methodology.
However, it is adapted to include dimensions, indicators and deprivation cut-offs selected
specifically to reflect the unique experiences of this youth cohort in the context of postapartheid
South Africa. Using National Census 2011 data, the Youth Multidimensional Poverty
Index (Youth MPI) quantifies the nature and extent of multidimensional poverty among youth
aged 15-24 and allows for a comparison of its spatial distribution across relatively small
geographical regions. The results indicate a highly unequal spatial distribution of youth
multidimensional poverty between local municipalities, with the highest levels of youth
poverty concentrated in the former homeland areas. Analysis of the separate indicators that
make up the Youth MPI indicate that 72% of multidimensionally poor youth are deprived in
educational attainment. Further investigation suggests that deprivation in education and
economic opportunities contribute the highest shares to the overall Youth MPI score. The
results illustrate the potential usefulness of the Youth MPI as a tool for informing and
targeting policies and interventions directed at youth.