Forecasting Total Fertility Rate in Suriname

In this research article, the ANN approach was applied to analyze TFR in Suriname. The employed annual data covers the period 1960-2018 and the out-of-sample period ranges over the period 2019-2030. The residuals and forecast evaluation criteria (Error, MSE and MAE) of the applied model indicate that the model is stable in forecasting TFR in Suriname. The results of the study indicate that annual total fertility rates in Suriname are likely to be around 3 births per woman over the out-of-sample period. Therefore, the authorities in the country should address pertinent challenges being faced by adolescents and young adults in accessing family planning services and fund empowerment programs for women.