To mark World Population Day, PS Kenya among other key stakeholders attended an event held by the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD) in Nairobi on July 31, 2024. This year’s theme, ‘Embracing Data for Decision Making: Using Evidence to Invest in Adolescents and Young People,’ underscored the importance of data in shaping impactful programs. Initiatives like DESIP, Accelerate, and Adolescent 360 were highlighted for their role in supporting Kenya’s youth.
Traditionally observed on July 11, World Population Day focuses on the urgency of addressing population issues and their links to environmental and human development concerns. The event emphasized enhancing the ability to utilize and communicate population data and research to policymakers, development partners, and program implementers. Presentations addressed achievements and challenges faced by adolescents and young people across six thematic areas: population size, growth, and age structure; fertility; morbidity and mortality; mobility, migration, and urbanization; population, human settlement, environment, and disasters; and data, research, and innovation. The focus on data, research, and innovation aligned with this year’s World Population Day theme, showcasing Kenya’s commitment to using data to guide its future.
“Together, we can ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for all by using evidence to invest in the future of our youth,” said Mohamed Sheikh, Director General, NCPD.
The government reaffirmed its dedication to provide reliable and comprehensive data for programming, leveraging digital innovations such as cloud computing and big data to ensure real-time population data availability. Appreciation was expressed for partners like PS Kenya, NCPD, and other aligned organizations for their ongoing support in implementing population programs.
First celebrated in Kenya on July 11, 1990, World Population Day remains crucial for raising awareness of population issues and their impact on the environment and development. Through its partnership with NCPD, PS Kenya continues to champion data-driven strategies to enhance the well-being of Kenya’s youth. By investing in evidence-based programs, PS Kenya is contributing to a brighter future for the younger generation, ensuring that developmental strategies are both effective and sustainable.
