Demographic Development and Social-Demographic Policy in Zambia

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to identify trends in demographic development and features of the socio-demographic policy of the Republic of Zambia in the context of the demographic transition. The main research method is the statistical analysis of the demographic data of the current registration and population censuses of the Republic. The sources of information are demographic statistics and demographic surveys presented in the materials of national agencies and international organizations of the UN system. Zambia is on the path of the demographic transition, but so far remains one of the youngest countries in the world in terms of the average age of the population. The annual population growth rate remains significant at the level of 2.5-3%. The country maintains a high birth rate. As a large cohort of young people enter their reproductive years, the population of the Republic is expected to double in the next 25 years. The demographic situation may exacerbate some socio-economic problems, including an increase in demand for jobs, a shortage of medical care and social services. In this situation, the state socio-demographic policy of Zambia, although focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals until 2030, has not yet fully responded to demographic changes. By 2030, the authorities of the Republic of Zambia have set the achievement of a prosperous nation with an average income as the goal of the country’s development by 2030. In this context, the health of the workforce remains an important component. It is considered that a healthy workforce will allow the country to increase productivity and gain a significant demographic dividend.