Water Wheel May/June 2019

Abstract

Sanitation innovation – a key to Africa’s development strategy The demographic dividend, new production revolution, shifting wealth patterns, accelerated urban transition and climate change and the green economy are the megatrends that will influence this continent’s future claims the latest analysis in a report named ‘Africa’s development dynamics – growth, jobs and inequalities’ compiled by the African Union Commission in partnership with the OECD. By 2063, Africa will constitute 30% of the global population with 3 billion inhabitants, more than doubling the current population of 1.25 billion. More than that it will be that region of the world with the most youthful population. What we do now will determine whether this computes into a demographic dividend or a demographic burden. For an already underserviced continent with respect to basic needs of water, sanitation, energy, health and nutritional security; the prospect of a doubling of the population in the next half century is daunting.

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