Devex: Opinion: A high birthrate alone will not lead to higher economic growth in Africa
Abisola Tolu-Odutola, founder and CEO of Mumspring

“…A high birthrate alone will not lead to higher economic growth on the continent. Rather, to transform their economies, African countries will need healthy children who can later turn into productive members of society. Ensuring this outcome starts at birth. … The World Health Organization suggests that adopting low-cost interventions such as providing sterilized birth kits and increasing access to trained birth attendants can significantly improve the survival and health of both mother and child. Healthier mothers and babies are the cornerstones of a more productive population. … The future of African countries is and will remain defined by its children. While birthrates in 91 out of 195 countries and territories are below replacement levels, population growth will likely continue to outstrip economic prospects. To ensure that children grow into productive adults, investments in health and early childhood education must be an urgent priority for African societies. Redirecting our attention to these efforts will put Africa on a path toward prosperity” (11/15).