Fertility rates, measured as the average number of children a woman has during her lifetime, play a key role in shaping population growth and societal structures. While global fertility rates have been declining due to urbanisation, education, and access to healthcare, some countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, continue to record exceptionally high rates. We examine the top five countries with the highest fertility rates globally, based on recent demographic data.
1. Niger
Niger has consistently held the highest fertility rate worldwide. Cultural practices, early marriages, and limited access to contraception are significant factors driving this trend. Despite efforts to improve family planning services, a lack of widespread education and deeply rooted traditions contribute to large family sizes. As a result, Niger faces challenges in healthcare, education, and resource allocation to meet the needs of its rapidly growing population.
2. Somalia
Somalia’s high fertility rate reflects a combination of cultural norms favouring large families and limited access to reproductive healthcare. Conflict and political instability have also hampered efforts to provide family planning resources. With nearly half of the population under 15 years old, Somalia’s youthful demographic places significant pressure on its healthcare and education systems.
3. Chad
In Chad, high fertility rates are deeply intertwined with socio-economic factors, including poverty, low female education levels, and limited access to modern contraception. Polygamy and early marriages are prevalent, further contributing to large family sizes. As one of the world’s least developed countries, Chad’s population growth exacerbates existing challenges in healthcare, infrastructure, and food security.
4. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s high fertility rate is driven by a combination of cultural norms and inadequate family planning resources. Large families are often seen as a source of economic security, particularly in rural areas where subsistence farming is prevalent. Efforts to promote contraceptive use and women’s education are slowly gaining traction, but significant work remains to reduce fertility rates in the DRC.
5. Mali
Mali rounds out the top five countries with the highest fertility rates. Traditional values, early marriages, and limited access to reproductive healthcare contribute to this trend. Like other countries on this list, Mali faces challenges in providing education and economic opportunities for its growing population. However, increasing awareness of family planning and gender equality offers hope for gradual change.
High fertility rates can strain a country’s resources, making it difficult to provide adequate healthcare, education, and infrastructure. While these countries face unique challenges, they also hold immense potential. Investments in human capital and sustainable development can transform these high-fertility nations into thriving, resilient societies.