And here we go....
- Africa has 13% of the world's population, and 69% of the world's HIV or AIDS cases.June 8, 2000 ENN/AP
- Population is expected to rise from 800 million now to 1.8 billion in 2050, because the fertility rate of 38 births per 1,000 people is still much higher than the mortality rate of 14 deaths per 1,000.June 8, 2000 ENN/AP
- 43% of the continent's population is under age 15. June 8, 2000 ENN/AP
- Africa now produces nearly 30% less food per person than in 1967.Sept 1999 ...Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs
- 25% of 10-year-old girls in poor sections have had sex. (some suggest that a victim cures his AIDS by having sex with a virgin) July 18, 2000 World Watch
- The HIV epidemic that is raging across Africa is now taking some 6,030 lives each day, and the number is expected to double by 2010.July 18, 2000 World Watch
- This epidemic could easily produce 20 million orphans by 2010.July 18, 2000 World Watch ;mind you, 20,000,000 isn't a SMALL number...
World Overpopulation Awareness. (2009). African Population Dynamics. Retrieved August 11, 2009, from the World Overpopulation Awareness Web Site: http://www.overpopulation.org/Africa.html
So...are the figures terrifying enough?
Africa is known to hold the largest population in the world right now despite having to face many economical, social and political problems. Not only are its people suffering from starvation as was discussed in an earlier post, but they also suffer from an AIDS epidemic that is bringing harm to millions of people especially children. They are being exploited in many ways. Child labour, sex slaves, you name it, they've got it. These children are stuck in a rut. Caught in a vicious cycle all because of the terrible P word. POVERTY! Will their suffering come to an end? I have no answer to that and I doubt you would have one either. As much as I want to sound optimistic for their future, I cannot bring myself to do so because the future for Africa does seem bleak to me. The problem has reached a level beyond salvation. Just go back and take a look at those figures once again. A change is possible if the government is willing to be diciplined enough to be efficient. People around the world are willing to give a hand, try to help out and hope to make a difference. There is help BUT it is never enough...
There is the mentality which goes like,"Education is the ticket out of poverty", but is it really a solution for the children suffering in Africa? How do they get education in the first place? Donations from around the world brought together with the vision of providing an african child with education can only do so much for a period of time. She or He may get the chance to learn their ABCs but what then? Do they really get the chance to further their studies? I know many of you'll are probably wondering what is it with all the questions. This just shows the many uncertainties underlying this HUGE MASSIVE problem Africa is facing and has been facing for a long time now.
If i had ONE wish that i could make come true, I would definately wish for the eradication of poverty in AFRICA. At least for the sake of the children. I know I am not saint but empathy does wonders.
Sadly, empathy is never enough...
donna...