No Family Planning And Misleading Poverty Numbers; No Cause For Celebration

                                     A reputable magazine reports that the number of people living in extreme poverty in sub-saharan Africa fell from 58 to 48 per cent between 1999 and 2010. It also reports that the population in that area rose from 767 million to over 1 billion. The percentage of people living in extreme poverty has decreased, while the actual number of people living in extreme poverty has risen significantly.
                                     Africa's population is growing at a rapid, unchecked pace. Even if by percentage the numbers of people living in extreme poverty decreases, the total number of people living in extreme poverty will continue to increase. Events such as recessions, wars, drought and so forth will significantly reverse any positive poverty reduction momentum. Even if economies grow and there is relative economic and political stability, unchecked population growth will ensure that untold millions will continue to live in extreme poverty. Continued environmental degradation, which is greatly exacerbated by rapid population growth, will add to the numbers of the extremely poor, and keep those living in poverty mired in their difficult situation.
                                      Sensible family planning needs to be an integral part of any serious poverty reduction efforts, and any serious conservation effort.