Understanding the Demographic Dividend in Ghana, Sierra Leone and the Gambia: A Prospect or Missed Opportunity?

Stephen O. Kwankye, University of Ghana
Eric Arthur, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST)
Faustina Frempong-Ainguah, Regional Institute for Population Studies/University of Ghana
Eugenia Amporfu, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi

Objective: This study comparatively investigates the onset of the demographic dividend (DD) in Ghana, Sierra Leone and The Gambia. The paper attempts to examine the onset of DD in the three countries to inform relevant policy actions to reap its benefits. Methodology: The study uses the National Transfer Accounts Approach to examine the demographic transition alongside economic development in each country to determine the commencement of the DD and its implications for policy action. Results: While the DD of Ghana started in 1980 and expected to end in 2025, that of The Gambia and Sierra Leone began in 1990-2000 and 2003 respectively, estimated to end by 2050. This calls for strategic investments in productive sectors to position the countries to reap the benefits of the DD. Conclusion: The analysis suggests that the onset of the DD could be a prospect or missed opportunity which will vary across the three countries.