This archive report was first published on 24 July 2020.
According to recent data, the world population is expected to decline by two billion by the year 2100, a stark contrast to previous projections made by the United Nations.
This decline will affect more than 20 countries, including first-world nations, which will see their populations diminish by half.
However, not all countries will experience a decline in population. In sub-Saharan Africa, the population size is predicted to triple to about three billion people by 2100, with Nigeria's population alone expected to reach almost 800 million.
As the population continues to grow in some countries, there is a need for governments to prioritize providing essential services and maintaining this population. But are our priorities realistic? What does success truly mean?
Some may define success as getting a good job, buying a nice house, and acquiring land. However, statistics show that 70 percent of young people will never own a house, not because they do not want one, but because they cannot afford. In fact, 90 percent of young people would like to own a house.
Land ownership is also a significant issue in Kenya, with the value of land increasing as the population grows. This makes it difficult for many to buy and own their own property.
As we look to the future, it is essential to start planning and collaborating to address the challenges that come with population growth. We must redefine what success means and prioritize sharing and collaboration over individualism.
As Nerima Wako-Ojiwa, executive director at Siasa Place, notes, 'We have to start looking at our future differently and it involves a lot of collaboration and sharing.'
