The 2023 Population and Housing Census for the |Khomas Region revealed rapid urban growth, a predominantly youthful population, and rising pressure on jobs and basic services.

This was revealed by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA). 

According to the census findings, |Khomas remains the most populated region in Namibia, with a population of over 494,000 people, reflecting a significant increase of 44,6% between the 2011 and 2023 census periods.

The report shows that the region is largely youthful, with nearly 68% of residents falling within the working-age category, while more than two-thirds of the population is under the age of 35.

Youth activity statistics indicate that out of nearly 200,000 young people aged between 15 and 34, only about 64,000 are employed, while more than 50,000 remain unemployed. The unemployment rate among the labour force stands at 34.4%.

Urbanisation continues to shape the region's population trends. Nearly all residents now live in urban areas, with urbanisation rising from 95.2% in 2011 to 98.3% in 2023. 

In terms of social protection, the old age pension remains the most commonly received social grant, followed by the state maintenance grant, while the foster parent grant recorded the lowest uptake.

For the first time, the census also included population distribution by ethnic groups in the region, with the Aakwanyama community accounting for the largest share at 21.3%, followed by Aandonga at 10.3% and Ovaherero at 10.1%.