Africa’s ageing population is set to nearly quadruple by 2050 – from roughly 74 million today to more than 235 million people aged 60 and older. While discussions about the continent’s future often highlight its youthful majority, a growing number of older adults is reshaping families, communities, and economies – and raising urgent questions about housing, urban design, and social inclusion.
By mid-century, older adults will account for over 10% of Africa’s population, according to the United Nations. With age, the need for accessible housing, reliable care networks, and safe, inclusive communities becomes more pressing. Yet many African cities remain unprepared for this demographic shift.
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Rethinking Housing for an Ageing Society
Across South Africa and beyond, the traditional model of institutional elder care is giving way to community-based and home-based solutions. Research shows that most older people prefer to “age in place” – remaining in their own homes and communities as they grow older. But for that to become reality, physical and social environments must evolve.
“Age-friendly housing isn’t just about ramps and grab bars,” says Professor Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobeka, Vice-Chancellor of North-West University. “It’s about designing inclusive spaces where people feel safe, connected, and valued – whether they’re 25 or 85.”
From mixed-use developments with accessible transport to adaptable homes that support changing needs, property choices and urban planning will increasingly shape how societies experience ageing.
Global Conversation Comes to Cape Town
These issues will be front and centre at the 17th Global Conference on Ageing, to be held in Cape Town from 9–12 September 2025. Co-hosted by the International Federation on Ageing (IFA) and North-West University, in collaboration with the South African government, the event will bring together more than 500 delegates from over 60 countries.
Under the theme, “YEBO/YES! Action on Ageing: Evidence | Policy | Practice,” the conference will explore how research and innovation can drive practical solutions across sectors – including housing and urban environments. Among the core themes are age-friendly communities, long-term care, digital innovation, and the rights of older people.
“For Africa, hosting this conference is more than symbolic,” says Gregor Sneddon, Secretary General of the IFA. “It’s a bold statement that the continent is ready to lead on ageing – not just follow.”
Planning for the Future
In South Africa, the number of citizens aged 60+ is projected to rise from 5.4 million today to more than 10 million by 2050. While this demographic change poses challenges, it also brings opportunities for innovation in housing, healthcare, and intergenerational living.
“Ageing is not only a health issue — it’s an economic and design issue,” says Sneddon. “How we prepare for it will determine the quality of life for millions.”
As the continent prepares for this inevitable shift, platforms like the IFA conference will be crucial for building partnerships, sharing best practices, and ensuring that ageing is recognised not as a burden, but as a chance to design stronger, more inclusive societies for all generations.
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Prof. Rayne Stroebel is an Executive Member of the International Longevity Center South Africa.
