Title: Somalia and the overpopulation connection.

POPLINE Document Number: 081215

Author(s):

Rohe JF

Source citation:

FOCUS, 1993;3(1):22-3.

Abstract:

Somalia's Operation Restore Hope has been reported in the media as successful in alleviating starvation and human suffering. The perspective missing from these media presentations of conditions in Somalia is the impact of population growth on famine or war conditions. In mid-1992 Somalia had an annual population growth rate of 2.9%, which means a doubling in 24 years. The birth rate is 6.6 children per woman, which is twice the world average of 3.3. The current fertility level contributes a net increase of 657 people per day or an additional 240,000 mouths to feed per year. The question is raised as to whether foreign agencies will be ready to provide humanitarian aid in 24 years or earlier, when food shortages appear again. The evidence points to the notion that Somalia has surpassed its carrying capacity, or the ability to support its population without degrading the physical, ecological, cultural, and social environment. Civil war and drought have exacerbated an already starving country. The question is also raised about when foreign aid will recognize problems of sustainability or carrying capacity. Good intentions may underlie the short-term policy of advocating foreign food aid, but in the long run the result may be unsuccessful. The situation in Somalia represents a failure to recognize that there are limits to resources and population is rapidly increasing. Current policy prevents the integration of food aid with birth control programs and prevents incentives to encourage participation. Ignoring the population growth component means contributing to even greater human suffering.

Keywords:

Somalia
Critique
War
Poverty
Overpopulation
Food Supply
Carrying Capacity
Population Pressure
Foreign Aid
Famine
Development Planning
International Agencies
Africa, Eastern
Africa, Sub Saharan
Africa
Developing Countries
Political Factors
Socioeconomic Factors
Economic Factors
Natural Resources
Environment
Financial Activities
Organizations