Uganda is gearing up to host the 8th African population conference from November 18th to the 22 next week in Kampala.
The conference will bring together scientists from various disciplines, Policymakers, practitioners, civil society organizations, international organizations, donors and other stakeholders from Africa and across the world to discuss the most pressing population and development issues confronting the continent and also examine opportunities and best practices that can be leveraged for the continent’s sustainable development.
As of Thursday, November 7, 2019 the African population according to United Nations estimates stood at 1,319,422,214.
Africa population is equivalent to 16.72% of the total world population. The continent is the second largest in the world by population. Studies also show that Africa has the youngest population in the world with Niger leading the pack.
And all ten of the world’s youngest countries are in Africa based on United Nations data. The UN said that this could be an advantage for the continent. An increasing working-age population is a major opportunity for economic growth in Africa.
The World Bank estimates that this demographic dividend could generate 11-15% GDP growth between 2011 and 2030.
However the UN 2014 report said, without jobs and economic opportunities, social stresses such as unemployment could lead to unrest. The authors write: “lack of meaningful work among young people is playing into frustration that has in some instances contributed to social unrest or uncontrolled migration.”
The report makes clear, African nations are projected to face the greatest challenges from youthful populations.
The organizers say this UAPS conference will offer an opportune platform for all these stakeholders to engage and discuss how Africa can harness its unique population dynamics for sustainable development, while proposing multidisciplinary solutions to Africa’s development challenges.
