JOINT PRESS STATEMENT

Kinshasa, July 11, 2026 – The Democratic Republic of Congo is taking significant steps to mark World Population Day (WPD). With an impressive 65% of its populace under the age of 25, the nation frames this observance around a powerful theme: « Realizing the hopes and aspirations of young people – today and for the future ».

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Planning, issues a critical reminder: the country’s future prosperity hinges on its ability to harness the immense potential of its youth as a primary driver for growth. Amidst evolving global demographic landscapes, the DRC strategically positions its youthful age structure as a key national asset.

The « Lives, Choices and Futures » Survey: Unveiling Youth Priorities

A recent UNFPA report, compiled from a survey of 100,000 young individuals across 73 countries, challenges conventional perceptions. Young Congolese, mirroring their global counterparts, express a strong desire to establish families. However, they confront substantial systemic barriers, including economic instability, precarious employment opportunities, and difficulties in securing adequate housing.

For 88% of these young people, financial security is an essential prerequisite for parenthood. This reality does not signify a dwindling interest in family life, but rather a profound call for enhanced opportunities and greater stability.

As emphasized by the UNFPA Executive Director in her WPD message, population policies rooted in coercion are destined to fail if they do not directly address the obstacles identified by young people themselves. Echoing a young community leader’s poignant observation: « It is not just about choosing to have fewer children. It is about having fewer choices. ».

DRC: Transforming Adversity into Development Catalysts

In response to prevailing crises, particularly in the eastern regions of the country, UNFPA and the Government are intensifying their collaborative efforts. This strengthened partnership, aligning with the National Strategic Development Plan (PNSD 2024-2028), is structured around two fundamental pillars:

• UNFPA actively champions improved access to vital reproductive health services and quality education, empowering young people, especially vulnerable girls and women, to exercise full autonomy over their bodies and lives. 

• UNFPA supports the Democratic Republic of Congo in accelerating the second General Population and Housing Census (RGPH2) process and developing Demographic Dividend (DD) profiles across provinces. This strategic approach ensures that investments are precisely targeted where the needs of young people are most urgent. 

A Call for Strategic Investment

UNFPA reiterates that investing in youth is not a mere budgetary expenditure, but rather the most impactful and productive allocation of resources for any nation. Genuine prosperity can only be achieved when young individuals are equipped with the means to contribute fully to the national fabric.

« Young people – from North to South, East to West – have voiced their perspectives. It is time to listen to them. And it is time to help create the conditions that enable them to make genuine choices, to build the families they desire, and to realize their hopes and aspirations », underscores the UNFPA Executive Director. 

UNFPA and the Ministry of Planning extend an invitation to all development partners, civil society organizations, and the private sector for constructive dialogue. The aim is to fundamentally reshape the narrative and collaboratively forge the Congolese nation of tomorrow: one that is innovative, robust, and resilient.