This book examines the promises as well as the challenges the demographic dividend brings to
sub-Saharan Africa as fertility rates in the region fall and the labor force grows. It offers a
detailed analysis of what conditions must be met in order for the region to take full economic
advantage of ongoing population dynamics. As the book makes clear the region will need to
accelerate reforms to cope with its demographic transition in particular the decline of
fertility. The continent will need to foster human capital formation through renewed efforts in
the areas of education health and employment. This will entail a true vision and determination
on the part of African leaders and their development partners. The book will help readers to
gain solid knowledge of the demographic trends and provide insights into socioeconomic policies
that eventually might lead sub-Saharan Africa into a successful future.
