The National Population and Housing Census 2024 conducted by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has provided a comprehensive snapshot of the country’s demographic and housing trends.
The final report offers invaluable insights into Uganda’s growth trajectory, highlighting critical issues such as population growth, urbanization, housing conditions, and social services.
As the country continues to grow at a rapid pace, these findings are crucial for shaping policies and programs aimed at improving living standards, boosting economic development, and addressing emerging challenges.
Population Growth: A Nation on the Rise
According to the 2024 census, Uganda’s population has seen significant growth over the past decade. The total population now exceeds 48 million, up from approximately 34 million recorded in the previous census conducted in 2014.
This represents a growth rate of about 3.2% annually, a rate that positions Uganda as one of the fastest-growing countries in Africa.
This rapid population increase brings both opportunities and challenges.
On the one hand, a young and growing population can fuel economic growth and create a vibrant workforce. On the other hand, it places immense pressure on the country’s infrastructure, healthcare system, and social services, all of which need to expand to meet the demands of a burgeoning populace.
Youthful Population: A Demographic Dividend?
One of the most striking features of Uganda’s population is its youthful demographic. The census reveals that over 70% of the population is under the age of 30, with a large proportion being children and young adults. This youth bulge offers both a potential demographic dividend and a looming challenge for policymakers.
If properly harnessed, Uganda’s young population could drive significant economic growth, particularly if the right investments are made in education, skills development, and employment opportunities. However, without sufficient resources and infrastructure to accommodate this rapidly expanding youth cohort, Uganda risks facing high levels of unemployment, underemployment, and social unrest.
Urbanization: The Shift Towards Cities
The 2024 census also paints a picture of a rapidly urbanizing nation. Over the last decade, Uganda has witnessed an accelerated migration from rural to urban areas. The urban population has grown by nearly 5% annually, a trend driven by factors such as better job prospects, improved infrastructure, and the availability of services in cities.
The capital, Kampala, remains the largest urban center, with millions of residents, but smaller cities and towns like Mbarara, Mbale, and Jinja are also growing rapidly. This urbanization trend has led to both opportunities and challenges in terms of housing, employment, and infrastructure.
While urbanization offers economic advantages, it also leads to overcrowded slums, increasing demand for affordable housing, and heightened pressure on urban services such as transport, sanitation, and healthcare. The census findings underscore the need for sustainable urban planning and policies that can accommodate this rapid urban growth.
Housing Conditions: A Growing Crisis
When it comes to housing, the 2024 census reveals that the majority of Ugandans still live in informal settlements or inadequate housing conditions. Despite efforts to improve infrastructure, the housing deficit remains substantial, especially in urban areas where the demand for housing far outstrips supply.
The report highlights that over 60% of households in Uganda live in homes made from mud and wattle, a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by many families. Access to basic services such as clean water, electricity, and proper sanitation remains limited, particularly in rural areas.
Addressing Uganda’s housing crisis will require concerted efforts from both the government and the private sector to increase the supply of affordable housing, improve building materials, and ensure that all households have access to basic services. Special attention must be given to the rapid growth of slums in urban centers.
Gender and Social Indicators: Disparities Remain
The census report also touches on gender and social indicators, revealing persistent disparities between men and women in areas like education, employment, and healthcare. While there has been progress in female enrollment in primary and secondary education, significant gaps remain in tertiary education and formal employment.
Additionally, maternal mortality rates remain a critical concern, with the report highlighting the need for better healthcare services and access to family planning resources, particularly in rural areas.
A Call for Action
The National Population and Housing Census 2024 offers a detailed blueprint for the challenges and opportunities facing Uganda as it moves into the next decade. The population is growing rapidly, and while this represents a potential demographic dividend, it also places significant strain on the country’s infrastructure, social services, and housing systems.
As Uganda looks towards its future, there is a clear need for targeted investments in education, healthcare, urban planning, and infrastructure. The findings of this report should serve as a call to action for the government, private sector, and development partners to collaborate and implement solutions that can ensure sustainable growth, improve living standards, and provide opportunities for all Ugandans, especially the youth.
