Why Study Aging in Africa, the Region With the World’s Youngest Population?

Increases in Africa's older population will outstrip growth in any other world region. Learn more in this America Counts story.

America Counts: Stories Behind the Numbers Why Study Aging in Africa, the Region With the World's Youngest Population? Africa's population is exceptionally young compared to other world regions that have been aging at a fast rate: only 5.6% of Africa's population was age 60 or older in 2020 compared to 23.4% in North America and double-digit percentages in every other world region. Even by 2050, Africa's older population is projected to remain in single digits, less than 1 in 10 (9.3%). That will still be lower than the current rates for other regions. Read More A U.S. Census Bureau report, Africa Aging: 2020, looks at the implications of population aging for Africa and its sub-regions and countries, now and in the future. The report presents reasons why it's imperative to study aging in Africa now. It can help guide government policies and social and economic development in the region. Continue reading to learn more about: Small share, large numbers Projected rapid growth of Africa's older population Major impacts on youth Africa's societal support burden Fertility decline in sub-Saharan African countries Demographic impact on economic development Help us spread the word about America Counts. Share this story on social media or forward it to a friend. Share This You May Be Interested Why Did Labor Force Participation Rate Decline When the Economy Was Good? The U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) 1-year estimates from 2010 and 2019 shed light on the impact of aging baby boomers on the labor force and employment characteristics. Learn More About America Counts America Counts tells the stories behind the numbers in a new inviting way. It features stories on various topics such as families, housing, employment, business, education, economy, emergency management, health, population, income and poverty. Contact our Public Information Office for media inquiries or interviews. Don't miss an America Counts story! Subscribe here.

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