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Environmental Goal
To monitor the total fertility rate |
Indicator
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The total fertility rate of South African women (2001-2007) |
Source: Statistics South Africa (2006). Mid-year population estimates, South Africa 2006. Statistical release P0302.Statistics Sputh Africa (2007). Community Survey (revised version), South Africa 2007. Statistical release P0301 | |
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Estimated total fertility rates in South Africa (2001–2009) |
Source: Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) 2009. Mid-year population estimates, 2009. Statistical release P0302 | |
Are we making progress?
Dropping fertility is due partly to social and economic trends, including economic growth in South Africa, urbanization, social mobility, and migration. Empowerment of women in terms of education, family planning, and access to jobs has contributed to driving fertility down. In 1998, South African women had an average of 2.9 children. There was a notable difference between urban and rural populations, with urban women having an average of 2.3 children each, and rural women averaging 3.9 children each. Fertility declined to an average of 2.38children per woman in 2009. |