Half of Uganda’s Population is Under 18, Reveals Latest Census Report

Uganda’s population reached 45,905,417 as of May 2024, marking an average annual growth rate of 2.9% since 2014, according to the recently released National Population and Housing Census 2024. The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) published the final results on December 31, 2024, providing a detailed overview of the country’s demographic and socio-economic situation.

The census, conducted according to international standards, surveyed all households and individuals across the country. Its primary goals included determining the population size, structure, and distribution, assessing housing conditions and access to services, tracking socio-economic changes since the previous census, and strengthening statistical infrastructure for future data collection.

The findings highlight a predominantly youthful population, with half of Uganda’s citizens under the age of 18. In contrast, only 5% of the population is aged 60 or older. This demographic trend poses both challenges and opportunities for the country’s future planning and development.

In terms of housing and living conditions, the report shows that 81.1% of households have access to improved water sources, while 53.4% have access to electricity. Additionally, 25.3% of households are connected to the national grid, and 28.1% rely on solar power.

The census also reflects progress in literacy, with 74% of individuals aged 10 and above being able to read and write in any language. However, the report points to ongoing challenges in well-being and mental health, as 33.1% of households engage in subsistence farming, and 12% of individuals aged 10 and above report experiencing probable psychological distress.

Uganda’s labor force includes 25,494,490 people aged 15 and above, representing 57.4% of the population. The unemployment rate stands at 12.3%, and 42.6% of youth aged 15-24 are neither employed, in education, nor in training, totaling over 4 million individuals.

These statistics highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions in education, healthcare, employment, and social services to better support Uganda’s young population and reduce socio-economic disparities. According to UBOS officials, the data gathered will guide policy decisions aimed at improving the quality of life for all Ugandans and advancing the country’s Vision 2040 goals.