Fertility rate has mysteriously dropped according to United Nations Fund for Population Agency 2025 State of the World Population report,
Dubbed “The Real Fertility Crisis, the report indicates that one in five people globally expect not to have the number of children they desire due to economic and social barriers.
“The issue is lack of choice, not desire, with major consequences for individuals and societies,” Dr. Gift Malunga, UNFPA Representative in Uganda said.
“We believe that every individual has the right to have the number and spacing of children they desire without coercion or force,” Dr. Malunga emphasized.
He however urged governments to invest in health, education, skills development, and supportive policies such as parental leave, and access to sexual and reproductive health information and services, to enable informed and voluntary reproductive choices.
“As policymakers consider how to navigate shifting population dynamics, UNFPA stands ready to support in understanding the challenges and designing solutions that will ensure rights and choices for all.”Malunga stressed.
Dr. Joseph Muvawala, Executive Director of the National Planning Authority said, “We welcome this gradual decline as it reflects growing access to reproductive health services and education,”
He noted that although Uganda’s fertility rate is declining, with the 2024 national population census indicating a rate of 4.5 children per woman of bearing age, there is need to safeguard against fertility falling below the replacement level of 2.1 children, which could cause long-term demographic challenges.
Dr. Muvawala stressed the importance of education, calling on the media to promote the government’s programs and ensure children stay in school for at least 16 years.
Professor Pamela Mbabazi, Chairperson of the National Planning Authority emphasized the importance of protecting reproductive rights, stating, “Investing in reproductive agency isn’t just sound policy; it’s a human right. When individuals have the freedom to decide about their bodies and futures, our society benefits through stronger families, healthier communities, and more resilient development.”