By Themba Edwards
On 1 October 2024, South Africa joined the global community in commemorating World Population Day under the theme, “Embracing the Power of Inclusive Data Towards a Resilient and Equitable Future for All.” The event was held in Mahikeng, the capital city of the North West province, where key stakeholders from the Department of Social Development, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the North West Provincial Department of Social Development, and North West University gathered to address pressing population issues.
This year’s observance comes at a pivotal moment as South Africa celebrates 30 years of freedom and democracy, coinciding with the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD). The focus on inclusive data underscores the critical role that accurate, representative demographic information plays in shaping policies that respect the rights and choices of every citizen.
Why World Population Day Matters:
World Population Day, commemorated annually on 11 July, serves to raise awareness of global population and development issues, promoting dialogue on the urgent need for inclusive and equitable growth. However, due to the national general elections and the transition to the 7th administration under the Government of National Unity, South Africa marked the event in October this year.
The theme for 2024, “Embracing the Power of Inclusive Data,” highlights the importance of data collection methods that include all population groups, ensuring that no one is left behind. Accurate data is the foundation for effective policymaking in areas such as healthcare, education, gender equality, poverty reduction, and social protection.
Deputy Minister of Social Development, Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, noted in her opening remarks: “We cannot achieve development if we do not have the correct data to guide us. Inclusive data ensures that the vulnerable, the elderly, and the marginalised are considered in every policy decision, thus ensuring a future that is resilient and fair for all.”
South Africa’s Population Growth and Progress in Data Collection:
One of the key achievements highlighted during the commemoration is the country’s progress in demographic data collection over the past three decades. Stats SA, the national statistical service, has been instrumental in conducting regular censuses, ensuring the government has access to reliable data.
According to the 2022 Census projections, South Africa’s population grew from 51.7 million in 2011 to 62 million in 2022, with an average annual growth rate of 1.8%. This growth represents the largest increase in the country’s population since the first democratic census in 1996. The 2022 Census was the fourth conducted since the advent of democracy, following those held in 1996, 2001, and 2011.
The 2022 Census data provides valuable insights into demographic trends, including urbanisation, migration, and the age distribution of the population. Such data is crucial for guiding the government’s efforts to meet its development goals, particularly in addressing inequalities and ensuring access to basic services.
Building Capacity in Population and Development Studies:
In addition to demographic data collection, South Africa has also made significant strides in building capacity within the population and development field. The Department of Social Development collaborates with several organisations, including North West University, to offer specialised training programs that build knowledge and expertise in this area.
Now in its tenth year, the Post Graduate Diploma in Population and Policy Analysis offered by North West University is a flagship programme aimed at government officials, civil society planners, managers, and researchers across the African continent. By providing this training, South Africa is helping to institutionalise knowledge in population development, fostering a new generation of experts who can contribute to policy formation and implementation.
Ageing Population and Implications for Policy:
This year’s World Population Day also coincides with the International Day of Older Persons, adding another layer to the discussions in Mahikeng. South Africa’s ageing population has emerged as a key demographic trend over the past 30 years, largely driven by improvements in life expectancy and healthcare access.
As life expectancy continues to rise, the government faces new challenges in addressing the needs of older citizens, particularly in areas such as healthcare, pension systems, and social services. The Department of Social Development has pledged to ensure that its policies reflect the realities of an ageing population, promoting dignity, inclusion, and access to services for all older South Africans.
Embracing Inclusive Data for a Resilient Future:
At the heart of the 2024 commemoration is the call for inclusive data. Inclusive data means ensuring that demographic information is collected in a way that represents all population groups, including those who have historically been marginalised or overlooked. This includes women, rural communities, people with disabilities, and minority racial groups.
By embracing inclusive data practices, South Africa aims to create policies that reflect the true diversity of its population, ensuring that no one is left behind. Accurate data helps policymakers identify disparities in access to services, enabling them to design targeted interventions that promote equity and inclusion.
ICPD Programme of Action and South Africa’s Achievements:
Since the adoption of the ICPD Programme of Action in 1994, South Africa has made significant progress in addressing population and development issues. The programme, which focuses on reproductive health, gender equality, and sustainable development, has served as a framework for the country’s efforts to improve the quality of life for its citizens.
Over the past three decades, South Africa has implemented policies that promote access to healthcare, education, and social protection, while also addressing the challenges of poverty and inequality. These efforts have been supported by the country’s commitment to data-driven governance, ensuring that policy decisions are informed by accurate and inclusive demographic information.
Challenges and the Road Ahead:
Despite the progress made, South Africa still faces significant challenges in addressing population and development issues. Poverty, inequality, and unemployment remain pressing concerns, particularly in rural and marginalised communities. However, with the data collected through the 2022 Census and other demographic surveys, the government is better equipped to tackle these challenges.
Deputy Minister Bogopane-Zulu stressed the importance of continued collaboration with international partners, such as the UNFPA, in addressing these issues. “Our partnership with UNFPA has been critical in guiding our population policies. Together, we will continue to work towards a future where every citizen’s rights are respected, and where development benefits all.”
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