The challenges of the demographic dividend for African countries

The implementation of population related public policies in Africa will only have the anticipated effects if a certain number of issues are tackled: harmful traditional practices, the stereotypes regarding gender social roles and family, community and societal norms; the legal and socioeconomic status of women and their condition regarding rights and reproductive health. These are the indispensable prerequisites for (and ongoing support of) the full realization of the demographic dividend. This document puts forward a certain number of recommendations concerning necessary and sufficient investment, both large and focused on human capital and particularly in a gender perspective.