Factors Explaining Population Growth in the Central District of Abomey-Calavi, Benin

Abstract

This study aims to examine the dynamics of population growth in the central district of Calavi and the impacts this has on spatial organization and living conditions. Population growth is driven by natural increase, characterized by a high birth rate, as well as by the region’s attractiveness due to socio-economic opportunities, thereby placing considerable pressure on infrastructure and urban space. In this context, the methodology adopted will be mixed, incorporating both secondary data and information collected in the field, notably through questionnaires, interviews with key informants, and direct observations. The sample will include 52 randomly selected households, representing 1%, as well as 20 key informants, for a total of 72 participants to whom a questionnaire will be distributed. The data obtained will be analyzed using statistical and geospatial tools such as Excel and QGIS. The demographic projection will be based on an exponential model, while the interpretation of the results will rely on the PEIR model. Thus, the results indicate a rapid and uncontrolled urbanization process, marked by a lack of infrastructure and services, which reinforces the need for sustainable urban planning to adapt to demographic growth trends.