Kampala, Uganda – The Ugandan government, through the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), has released the final report of the National Population and Housing Census 2024, revealing a nation grappling with rapid population growth and a significant youth unemployment crisis, alongside notable progress in access to basic services. The census, Uganda’s first digital effort, paints a comprehensive picture of the country’s demographic and socio-economic landscape, highlighting both opportunities and challenges.
The report indicates Uganda’s population has surged to 45.9 million, with an annual growth rate of 2.9%. Notably, half of the population is under the age of 18, presenting a youth-dominated demographic. Analysts suggest this presents both an opportunity and a challenge, requiring substantial investments in education and employment to harness the potential of this young population.
A critical concern highlighted by the census is youth unemployment. The report reveals that 42.6% of youths aged 15-24 are not in employment, education, or training (NEET), while overall unemployment among the working-age population stands at 12.3%. Experts warn that this level of youth unemployment could fuel social unrest, emphasizing the need for targeted skills training and investments in industries capable of absorbing the youth bulge.
While Uganda boasts a literacy rate of 74% among individuals aged 10 and above, access to secondary education remains a challenge. Of 25.1 million school-age individuals, only 4.6 million are enrolled in secondary school. This gap highlights the need to improve the transition from primary to secondary education to equip young people with essential skills.
The census also reveals progress in access to basic services, with 81.1% of households accessing improved water sources and 53.4% having electricity, including both grid and solar power. However, reliance on wood for cooking remains high, with only 3% of households using clean fuels.
Despite advances in basic services, Uganda faces significant health challenges. The report indicates a maternal mortality rate of 207 per 100,000 live births and widespread psychological distress affecting 12% of the population aged 10 and above. Health experts emphasize the need to prioritize mental health alongside maternal care to improve overall well-being.
The census findings are intended to serve as a critical tool for policymakers, emphasizing the need for data-driven planning to achieve Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the Sustainable Development Goals. The 2024 census underscores both Uganda’s potential and its challenges, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive development strategies.
