Africa faces unique demographic developments today. The continent’s population is growing rapidly: from currently 1.5 billion people to almost 2.5 billion by 2050. Sixty percent of the population is under 25 years old. This dynamic holds enormous opportunities for the economic development of African countries, but at the same time places high demands on education, health and employment opportunities for the young generation.

The final report of the international dialogue series “African Dialogues on Faith and Demography” shows how these challenges can be overcome and what role religious actors play for sustainable development. The dialogue series, which was organized by Religions for Peace, the German Federal Foreign Office, UNFPA and the Berlin Institute, aimed to shed light on the opportunities at the intersection between religion and demography. It offered the opportunity for experts, faith actors and members of religious initiatives and associations from all over Africa to engage in dialogue. The report is based on the findings of the six dialogues and highlights key areas for action.

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