1.1 - Niger High Rate of Population Growth

Question 1

Describe the social circumstances for rapid population growth of Niger (statistics)

Answer 1

• highest birth rate in the world (2016), reducing death rate and high infant mortality rate
• highest fertility rate: 7 children/woman in 2016
• desire for large families
• less use of contraception due to religious beliefs
• 80% of population is Muslim with little use of contraception (polygamy)
• men want 12 children on average
• use children for labour

Question 2

Describe the effects of rapid population growth in Niger (name 5)

Answer 2

• 45% live below the poverty line (second poorest economy in the world)
• reduction of farm land as father dies
• food production does not keep pace: 38% of children under five are underweight
• frequent droughts reduce food production
• few teachers: children only attend school for five years, literacy rate is 19%
• inadequate healthcare: two doctors for every 100,000 people
• lack of jobs
• nearly 90% lack proper sanitation

Question 3

What anti-natalist policies has Niger implemented? (2)

Answer 3

• 2002: free contraceptive provision
• Radio programs promoting family planning

Question 4

Why have anti-natalist protocols not worked to reduce population growth?

Answer 4

• Maputo Protocol outlawing early marriage is unratified
• Contraceptive prevalence is low
• Cultural dynamics represent male interest; women do not have the option to resist
• Median age: 15.52 years; median age of birth: 17.9

Question 5

What anti-natalist laws can be implemented in the future in Niger? (name 5)

Answer 5

• emphasise socioeconomic improvement which may lead to lower birth rates
• tax breaks
• incentives (cash payment)
• female access to education
• fertility regulations
• increase age of marriage
• review role of religion and culture in family sizes
• improve quantity and quality of healthcare services
• limit family size by law