Kamerun Piramida Penduduk

# Commentary on Cameroon's Population Pyramid

Cameroon's population composition exhibits the characteristic form of a "youth-type pyramid," with approximately 45% of the total population consisting of young people under 15 years of age. The very broad base of this pyramid that narrows rapidly toward the top reflects high birth rates and relatively high mortality rates. Life expectancy remains at approximately 60 years, and the proportion of elderly people (aged 65 and above) is extremely limited at less than 3% of the total population.

As a demographic trend, Cameroon is currently in a period of "demographic dividend." With a high proportion of working-age population and relatively low dependent population, this presents an opportunity for economic growth. However, simultaneously, the total fertility rate remains high at approximately 4.5 children per woman, and the annual population growth rate continues at a high level exceeding 2.5%.

The socioeconomic impacts are substantial. Securing education, healthcare, and employment opportunities to accommodate rapid population growth is an urgent priority, with population concentration in urban areas and unemployment problems intensifying. While the large youth population could potentially be a source of political instability and social tension, with appropriate investment and policies, it also holds potential as a driving force for economic development through human capital utilization.