Numbers are key, but harnessing potential of all people is valuable

Section of the crowd during the 59th Madaraka Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi. [Denish Ochieng, Standard]

It is estimated that the global population will reach eight billion in November. This milestone is a moment for celebration on today’s world population day, as it indicates the incredible advancements made in health care, poverty reduction, and social development.

Infant and maternal mortality have declined, and people are living longer and healthier lives. Kenya’s population stands at 50 million strong, with the youth under 35 making up 76 per cent of this number. With a fertility rate of 3.4 children per woman, Kenya’s population is bound to keep growing, while remaining youthful.