The youth of Sudan

The youth population in Sudan represents a bulge in the country’s demographics.

Since Sudan split into two independent countries, Sudan (with Khartoum as its capital) and South Sudan (with Juba as its capital), in July 2011, the number of youth in Sudan is not statistically clear as the data continues to be analyzed.

In July 2012, the United Nations Population Fund (UNPFA) in Khartoum assisted the National Population Council and the Central Bureau of Statistics to build their capacity.

The CBS estimated the youth population in Sudan at 20.5 million which represents 62% of the total population. The population of 15-35 year olds is estimated to be 43% of the population.

The government recognizes the importance of youth through their National Youth Strategy (2012-2037), with the rising unemployment rate to be addressed in terms of education, especially vocational skills and training. Over 75% of 15-35 year olds have secondary education, but over 20% of youth are currently unemployed.

Therefore youth issues are a major population challenge for Sudan. The National Youth Strategy has been adopted and Youth Parliaments have been established to advocate for and enhance youth participation. To mobilize youth activities, youth centres are also being established across the country as gathering points. These will focus on providing a range of activities for youth, focusing on sporting tournaments and games, as well as cultural entertainment.

The Khartoum central government is planning the next population census for Sudan in 2016.

MARTINA NICOLLS is an international aid and development consultant, and the author of:- The Shortness of Life: A Mongolian Lament (2015), Liberia’s Deadest Ends (2012), Bardot’s Comet (2011), Kashmir on a Knife-Edge (2010) and The Sudan Curse (2009).

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