Africa’s rapid population growth can drive economic prosperity and bolster global political balance, contrary to the widespread myth of overpopulation
Africa’s population growth is a cause for concern among Western nations, particularly in Europe and the United States. However, it is essential to debunk the myths and fears surrounding Africa’s increasing population and recognize its potential as a solution rather than a problem. Contrary to popular belief, Africa’s population growth can be harnessed to drive socio economic development, improve food security, and ensure a balanced global political landscape.
By 2050, Africa’s population is projected to reach a staggering 2.5 billion and four billion by 2100, raising concerns about resource scarcity and competition for space. However, it is important to note that Africa’s population growth is not unique or alarming. Europe experienced a similar demographic transition in the 19th century, which contributed to its economic growth and development.
The population growth in Africa is a result of decreasing infant mortality rates and increasing life expectancy, primarily due to advancements in medical technology and improved healthcare access. The notion that Africa is overpopulated stems from misconceptions about the availability of resources and deeply ingrained racism in some Europeans who fear losing their place in the world to a growing population of the Global South.
Reliable data regarding Africa’s population growth rates is challenging to obtain due to infrequent and selective censuses, as well as the lack of electronic citizen registers in many countries. Nonetheless, international organizations, such as the African Development Bank and the United Nations Population Fund, rely on available data and include it in their reports without questioning its accuracy.
Taking the example of Rwanda, a country that survived a devastating genocide in 1994, we can observe that rapid population growth does not necessarily lead to overpopulation. Despite being a densely populated country, Rwanda has achieved commendable economic growth and boasts some of the lowest rates of hunger and unemployment in Africa.
Population growth in Africa equates to market growth. For instance, when Ethiopia’s population grew from 67 million to 126 million people, the number of regularly malnourished or hungry individuals decreased significantly. This was largely due to the development of domestic food production and infrastructure, which would have been impossible without population growth and the resulting market expansion. Therefore, as Africa’s population increases, its people will be better nourished, and economic opportunities will expand.
One concern raised is whether Africa will be able to provide adequate employment opportunities for its growing population. While this remains an open question, the development of domestic markets is likely to play a crucial role in addressing this issue. As African cities continue to offer better quality of life and job opportunities, the need to migrate to economically stagnant Europe will diminish.
Contrary to popular belief, Africa’s population growth can also contribute positively to addressing the decline in the Northern Hemisphere’s ageing population. Current statistics indicate that only a small fraction of Africa’s population migrates annually, meaning the majority of population growth impacts the African continent itself. Thus, it is Africa’s responsibility to tackle this issue internally.
Addressing food security is another vital aspect of population growth in Africa. While larger population density alone does not guarantee improved food security, combined with infrastructural and governance solutions, it can potentially eliminate hunger and poverty. Many African countries affected by food insecurity possess fertile land-man ratios higher than the global average. Issues such as lack of infrastructure, investment, and agricultural technology contribute to low productivity and poverty.
The West’s disapproval of Africa’s population growth is influenced by its efforts to reduce birth rates. Policies aimed at restricting parental rights, reducing financial benefits for mothers, and promoting alternative lifestyles indirectly intend to lower birth rates in Europe and the US. These ideas are then exported to the Global South, including Africa, to preemptively control birth rates. However, this agenda ultimately stems from the West’s fear of losing political and economic dominance as Africa and Asia’s population grows.
Russia, unlike other global powers, is interested in Africa’s population growth. As the world transitions to a multipolar order, Russia recognizes the importance of Africa’s increasing influence. While migration may be a part of Russia’s relationship with Africa, it is not the primary focus. Russia seeks a world with multiple centres of power, rather than a unipolar or bipolar world, and recognizes the need for the continent’s voice and strength.
In conclusion, continent’s population growth should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a threat. By harnessing the potential of a growing population, Africa can drive socio economic development, improve food security, and contribute to a balanced global political landscape. It is crucial to dispel the myths and fears surrounding Africa’s population growth and embrace the benefits it can bring to the continent and the world as a
