JOINT PRESS RELEASE
Kinshasa, July 11, 2026 – The Democratic Republic of the Congo is taking bold action on World Population Day, harnessing its dynamic youth demographic to drive sustainable development. With over 65% of its population under 25, the nation has adopted a forward-thinking theme: “Fulfilling youth aspirations today and shaping tomorrow’s future.”
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Ministry of Planning are sounding a clarion call: the nation’s future hinges on unlocking the potential of its young people. In a world grappling with shifting demographic trends, the DRC is turning its youth bulge into a strategic advantage.
Groundbreaking survey reveals youth priorities in the DRC
A landmark UNFPA study, encompassing responses from 100,000 young people across 73 countries, shatters misconceptions about Congolese youth. Contrary to stereotypes, most aspire to start families—but systemic barriers stand in their way. Economic instability, job insecurity, and housing shortages top the list of obstacles.
Findings show that 88% of young Congolese identify financial security as the critical step before parenthood. Their hesitation isn’t a rejection of family life, but a demand for better opportunities and stability.
The UNFPA Executive Director emphasizes that top-down demographic policies fail without addressing the real challenges young people face. As one youth leader put it: “This isn’t about choosing to have fewer children. It’s about having fewer choices at all.”
From challenges to opportunities: a national strategy
Amid ongoing crises, particularly in the East, UNFPA and the Government are doubling down on their partnership under the National Strategic Development Plan (2024-2028). Their focus? Two transformative pillars:
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Reproductive health and education: UNFPA is expanding access to reproductive health services and quality education, empowering young people—especially girls and vulnerable women—to take control of their lives and futures.
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Demographic data and planning: The agency is supporting the DRC’s second General Population and Housing Census (RGPH2) and developing demographic dividend profiles across provinces. This data-driven approach will target investments where youth needs are most urgent.
Investing in youth: the smartest choice for Congo
UNFPA stresses that investing in young people isn’t a cost—it’s the most profitable long-term investment a nation can make. True prosperity arrives when youth are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the national economy.
“From every corner of this nation—North, South, East, and West—young voices have spoken. Now is the time to listen. Now is the time to create the conditions for them to build the families they dream of and achieve the futures they deserve,” the UNFPA Executive Director asserts.
UNFPA and the Ministry of Planning are rallying development partners, civil society, and the private sector to forge a collaborative path forward. Together, they aim to rewrite Congo’s narrative—building a nation that is innovative, resilient, and sustainable for generations to come.
