Demographic transition in an Ethiopian context

Abstract

Abstract: The Demographic Transition Theory is briefly presented, and related to Natural increase of population, and its components, in Ethiopia. From a literature review the factors generally assumed to influence levels of fertility and mortality are extracted, and comments of their role on Ethiopian population growth are made. Doubts about Ethiopia experiencing a development similar to the Demographic Transition are discussed. The author concludes that, despite scant data on Ethiopia to support the theory, based on present knowledge it is too early to reject the Demographic Transition Theory as relevant to future population changes in Ethiopia. Economic development and change of people’s attitudes are pointed out as two possible key factors in reaching a replacement level with low levels of fertility and mortality. [Ethiop. J. Health Dev. 1998;12(2):149-160]