Lecture Notes: Population and Development in The Gambia

Introduction

• The Gambia, from small villages to cities, is characterized by a huge number of young people.
• Questions addressed:
  • Why are there so many young people?
  • Impact on resources and geography.
  • Government measures for sufficient services.
  • Effects of large families on basic needs.
  • Slowing down population growth.
• Focus on how Gambia's people, government, and organizations are meeting these challenges for a sustainable future.

Demographics and Cultural Insights

• Population Characteristics:
  • Gambia has one of the youngest populations globally.
  • High birth rate: 40 children per thousand annually, driven by cultural, religious, and economic beliefs.
  • Cultural taboo around discussing sex and family planning.
• Family and Religion:
  • Predominantly Muslim (95% of the population), affecting family planning practices.
  • Religious beliefs and cultural norms contribute to large family sizes.

Economic and Social Challenges

• Dependency and Health:
  • High dependency ratio: 92%, meaning nearly as many dependents as working-age individuals.
  • Health challenges with limited medical facilities, high infant mortality, and low life expectancy.
• Resource Strain:
  • Pressure on resources due to population growth.
  • Challenges in the provision of health, education, housing, and sanitation.

Government and NGO Initiatives

• Family Planning Initiatives:
  • Government awareness campaigns and NGO partnerships to promote contraception.
  • Social marketing approach to make contraceptives affordable and accessible.
  • Significant distribution of contraceptives, lowering growth rates.
• Healthcare Improvements:
  • Expansion of clinics for maternal and child health.
  • Vaccination programs to reduce infant mortality.

Education and Forest Management

• Education Initiatives:
  • Increase in girls’ school attendance; campaigns highlighting the importance of female education.
  • Schools provide meals to encourage attendance.
• Forest and Environmental Efforts:
  • Deforestation issues due to population demands on resources.
  • Collaboration with international bodies for sustainable forest management and regeneration.

Summary and Future Outlook

• Cultural Shifts and Challenges:
  • Changing religious attitudes towards family planning.
  • Family planning discussion becoming more accepted in society.
• Future Prospects:
  • Slowing population growth and improving education and health standards indicate positive trends.
  • Aim for a future where the next generation's challenges are focused beyond survival.