Ghana’s Population Projected to Surpass 50 Million by 2050

The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has projected that Ghana’s population will surpass 50 million by 2050, a substantial increase from the 30.8 million recorded in 2021. This projection is based on the 2021 Population and Housing Census Thematic Report on Population Projections, which anticipates the population growing 1.7 times its 2021 size.

Regional Population Projections: The report forecasts that the Greater Accra and Ashanti regions will remain the most populous, each housing approximately 7.5 million people by 2050. Additionally, the Northern, Northeast, and Savannah regions are expected to witness the highest growth rates, with their populations projected to double.

Demographic Shifts: The report also anticipates significant demographic changes:

• Youth Population Decline: There will be a noticeable decrease in the youth population.
• Increase in Elderly Population: An uptick in the elderly population is expected, indicating a shift towards an aging society.
• Urbanization: Urban areas are projected to grow significantly, with over half of the regions becoming predominantly urban by 2030.

“By the end of the decade (2030), the population is expected to grow to 37.2 million persons, meaning that an estimated 711,706 additional persons, on average, will be added to the population annually. The population residing in urban areas is projected to increase by 4.0 percentage points between 2021 and 2030: from 56.7 to 60.7 percent,” the report states.

Urban vs. Rural Dynamics: The report highlights that by 2030, more than half of Ghana’s 16 regions will be urban. However, seven regions (Volta, Oti, Western North, North East, Upper West, Savannah, and Upper East) will remain predominantly rural.

Key Points:

• Population Growth: Ghana’s population is projected to exceed 50 million by 2050.
• Urbanization: Significant urban growth is expected, with over half the regions becoming predominantly urban by 2030.
• Regional Population: Greater Accra and Ashanti regions will each house approximately 7.5 million people by 2050.
• Demographic Changes: There will be a decline in the youth population and an increase in the elderly population.
• Highest Growth Rates: Northern, Northeast, and Savannah regions will experience the highest population growth rates.

The projected population growth presents both opportunities and challenges for Ghana, necessitating strategic planning to manage urbanization, demographic shifts, and regional disparities. The government and relevant stakeholders will need to address these changes to ensure sustainable development and improved quality of life for all citizens.

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