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Top 10 Most Populated Countries in Africa

What drives the staggering population growth in Africa’s most populous countries? As the continent experiences rapid demographic changes, understanding these dynamics becomes crucial. In 2025, Africa will be home to several nations with populations exceeding 50 million, each exhibiting unique challenges and opportunities linked to their demographics. From Nigeria’s youthful workforce to Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, these countries shape the continent’s future in profound ways. 

List of 10 Most Populated Countries in Africa

Here is the list of the 10 African countries with the highest population

  1. Nigeria
  2. Ethiopia
  3. Egypt
  4. DR Congo
  5. Tanzania
  6. South Africa
  7. Kenya
  8. Sudan
  9. Uganda
  10. Algeria

1) Nigeria

Nigeria is the most populated country in Africa, with an anticipated 232,679,478 people living there in 2024. Nigeria has a huge population that makes up more than 15% of the continent’s overall population, making it a significant demographic force in the continent. With an average of 5.2 children per woman, the high fertility rates of the nation are the main driver of its growth. With more than 60% of its population under 25, Nigeria has a young workforce that has helped it establish itself as a major economic hub thanks to its rapid expansion.

With a population of over 15 million, Lagos is the largest metropolis in Nigeria and one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas globally. Nigeria is experiencing issues including urban overpopulation, unemployment, and strain on its infrastructure as a result of rapid growth. However, its burgeoning population also provides opportunities for economic expansion, particularly in sectors like agriculture, technology, and services. 

Nigeria’s large population has made it Africa’s largest consumer market, with millions of people demanding food, services, and goods. Despite these challenges, Nigeria is expected to continue growing, potentially surpassing 300 million people by 2050, further cementing its influence within the continent and globally.

2) Ethiopia

With 132,059,767 people living there as of 2024, Ethiopia is the second most populated nation and a landlocked country in Africa. Its high fertility rate (4.1 children on average per woman) and quickly expanding population are the main factors contributing to its demographic prominence. Ethiopia has one of the youngest populations in the world, with over 70% of its citizens under 30, which presents both potential and difficulties for the country.

With a population of more than 5 million, Addis Ababa is the political and economic center of the nation. But one distinctive aspect of Ethiopia is its vast rural population—nearly 75% of the country’s population lives in rural areas and is mostly dependent on agriculture. The nation is a leading producer of coffee and other cash crops, though it faces challenges in terms of food security and access to basic services in remote areas.

The Ethiopian government has launched ambitious infrastructure projects, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which will play a key role in the country’s future energy and economic landscape. As Ethiopia’s population continues to grow, its youthful demographic offers potential for economic development, though rapid urbanization and resource management remain critical areas of focus.

3) Egypt

Egypt is the most populated country in the Arab world and the third most populous country in Africa, with 116,538,258 people as of 2024. This population, which is centered around the Nile River, makes up around 11% of all people in Africa. Approximately 90% of Egyptians reside in approximately 5% of the country, primarily in major cities like Cairo and Alexandria. Cairo is one of the biggest cities in the area, home to more than 21 million people.

Egypt’s 3.3 children per woman fertility rate is contributing to the country’s population increase, which presents problems for the country’s housing, public services, and infrastructure. To handle this rapid growth, the nation has made significant investments in large-scale construction projects. For example, it has built new cities like the New Administrative Capital to ease the strain on Cairo.

Economically, Egypt relies on sectors like agriculture, tourism, and the Suez Canal, which remain crucial to its GDP. However, the fast-growing population strains resources like water, energy, and food. The government has been working on initiatives to manage these challenges, such as desalination plants and renewable energy projects, to ensure sustainable development amid continuous population growth. Egypt’s demographic size makes it a central player in both African and Middle Eastern geopolitics.

4) DR Congo

With 109,276,265 people living there as of 2024, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) is the fourth most populated nation in Africa. With one of the highest fertility rates on the continent (5.7 children per woman), the nation’s population is expanding quickly. More than 60% of the population is under 25, which makes for a youthful workforce but also presents difficulties with jobs, healthcare, and education.

With a population of more than 17 million, the capital city of Kinshasa is among the continent’s biggest cities. The rate of urbanization in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is continuously rising as more people relocate there in quest of better possibilities. However, the country struggles with infrastructure development, making it difficult to meet the needs of its rapidly expanding urban population.

Despite its demographic advantages, DR Congo faces significant challenges, including political instability, poverty, and inadequate access to basic services. However, its vast natural resources, including minerals like cobalt and copper, provide immense economic potential. As the population continues to rise, DR Congo’s ability to leverage these resources while managing rapid growth will determine its future development trajectory.

5) Tanzania

Tanzania is the fifth most populous country in Africa, with 68,560,157 people living there as of 2024. Tanzania is well-known for its consistent population increase, which is fueled by the country’s high fertility rate of 4.7 children per woman. With about 65% of the population under 25, the nation has a youthful population that presents both opportunities and challenges for the expanding labor force, particularly in the areas of employment, healthcare, and education.

With a population of more than 7 million, Dar es Salaam, the commercial capital, is one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa. Infrastructure, housing, and service development are being pushed by rapid urbanization, but over 65% of Tanzanians still live in rural regions, where access to clean water, healthcare, and education is sometimes limited.

Tanzania’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, which employs about 65% of the population. However, sectors like mining, tourism, and manufacturing are becoming increasingly important, particularly with the country’s rich reserves of gold, natural gas, and minerals. As Tanzania’s population grows, the government has been focusing on sustainable development, improving healthcare access, and expanding economic opportunities to accommodate its growing demographic.

6) South Africa

With 64,007,187 people living there as of 2024, South Africa ranks sixth in terms of population in Africa. With a fertility rate of 2.4 children per woman, South Africa has a comparatively low population growth rate compared to many of its continental neighbors. With a higher percentage of working-age adults, the nation’s demographic makeup is more balanced than that of other African countries, offering it a distinct edge in terms of future labor force size.

Over 67% of South Africa’s population lives in cities, making the country extremely urbanized. With a population of nearly 5 million, Johannesburg is the nation’s economic center. Other major cities with sizable populations include Cape Town, Pretoria, and Durban. However, rapid urbanization has exacerbated housing shortages and created stress on infrastructure and public services.

Economically, South Africa is one of the continent’s most industrialized nations, with a strong economy driven by sectors like mining, manufacturing, and financial services. However, the country also faces challenges such as income inequality, unemployment, and access to quality healthcare and education. As South Africa’s population continues to grow, addressing these socio-economic issues while maintaining economic stability remains a key focus for the government.

7) Kenya

With 56,432,944 people living there as of 2024, Kenya is the seventh most populous nation in Africa. The country’s consistent population increase is attributed to its high fertility rate, which stands at 3.4 children per woman on average. More than 40% of Kenyans are under the age of 15, which means that the country faces both opportunities and challenges when it comes to jobs, healthcare, and education.

Kenya’s largest and capital city, Nairobi, is home to more than 5 million people and acts as the country’s political, economic, and cultural hub. Nearly 30% of the population currently lives in cities as a result of the nation’s growing urbanization. Urbanization is putting strain on housing and infrastructure, but it also presents chances for technological advancement, economic diversification, and creativity.

Kenya’s economy is highly diversified, with agriculture, technology, and tourism playing key roles. Agriculture, employing about 75% of the population, remains the backbone of the country, with major exports including tea, coffee, and flowers. Meanwhile, the nation is emerging as a technology hub, often referred to as “Silicon Savannah,” due to its innovations in mobile banking and tech startups. As Kenya’s population continues to grow, managing urbanization and sustaining economic growth will be key priorities.

8) Sudan

With 50,448,963 people living there as of 2024, Sudan is the eighth most populous nation in Africa. With an average of 4.3 children per woman, the nation has a high fertility rate that contributes to its ongoing population expansion. Sudan confronts several obstacles to political stability, economic growth, and access to basic amenities like healthcare and education despite its vast territory and abundance of natural resources.

With a population of more than 6 million, Khartoum is the political and economic center of Sudan. With 60% of the population living in rural areas and primarily depending on livestock farming and subsistence agriculture, the nation is still predominantly rural. Agriculture is the backbone of Sudan’s economy, employing the majority of the workforce, but the sector remains underdeveloped due to limited infrastructure, climate challenges, and political unrest.

Sudan’s economy is also supported by oil and mineral resources, though these have not been fully capitalized due to years of conflict and instability. As the population continues to grow, particularly in urban areas, Sudan faces challenges in creating jobs, improving living conditions, and providing basic services. Managing these demographic pressures while pursuing economic reforms remains a critical task for the country’s development trajectory.

9) Uganda

Uganda is the ninth most populated country in Africa, with 50,015,092 people as of 2024. Uganda has one of the world’s highest fertility rates, with an average of 4.7 children per woman, and is well-known for its rapid population increase. With more than 75% of Ugandans under 30, the country’s youthful population results from its high birth rate. Although this young population offers the potential for a vibrant workforce, it also places pressure on the nation’s job, healthcare, and education systems.

With a population of over 3.5 million, Kampala serves as the political and economic hub of Uganda. Even though 75% of Ugandans still live in rural areas, the country is rapidly urbanizing. Agriculture remains the backbone of Uganda’s economy, employing over 70% of the population and contributing significantly to GDP. The country is a leading producer of coffee, tea, and bananas, though the agricultural sector faces climate change and infrastructure development challenges.

As Uganda’s population grows, the government is focusing on education, infrastructure, and healthcare improvements to manage the demands of its rapidly expanding population. Uganda’s ability to harness its youthful population will be key to its future economic growth and stability.

10) Algeria

Algeria is the largest country in terms of land area and the 10th most populous country in Africa, with 46,814,308 people as of 2024. The majority of Algerians live in the northern coastal region, which is home to towns like Algiers, Oran, and Constantine, despite the country’s huge desert terrain. With a population of more than 4 million, the capital city of Algiers acts as the nation’s political and economic hub.

Algeria has seen consistent population growth, with 2.9 children born to each woman. In comparison to other African countries, this growth has been rather mild. This can be attributed to advancements in healthcare and education, as well as a decrease in the infant mortality rate. Approximately 70% of the population lives in urban areas, a trend that has accelerated in recent decades, leading to significant urbanization challenges, including housing shortages and infrastructure strain.

Algeria’s economy is heavily dependent on oil and gas, which account for over 90% of its export revenues. However, the government is actively pursuing economic diversification, particularly in sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and renewable energy. With a young, growing population and significant natural resources, Algeria has the potential to become a major economic player in Africa, though managing social and economic inequalities remains a key challenge.

No.CountryPopulation in 2024
1Nigeria232,679,478
2Ethiopia132,059,767
3Egypt116,538,258
4Democratic Republic of Congo109,276,265
5Tanzania68,560,157
6South Africa64,007,187
7Kenya56,432,944
8Sudan50,448,963
9Uganda50,015,092
10Algeria46,814,308

Conclusion

In 2024, the most populated countries in Africa reveal critical insights into the continent’s future. The rapid urbanization trends showcase that over 60% of residents in nations like Nigeria and Egypt now live in cities, driving infrastructure demands and economic opportunities. Furthermore, with a median age of under 20 in many countries, particularly in Ethiopia and Uganda, the continent boasts a youthful workforce poised for economic development. However, the challenges are stark; high unemployment rates and limited access to education affect millions. As these nations navigate their demographic changes, the focus on sustainable growth and social equity becomes increasingly vital for stability and prosperity. 

FAQs

Which Country Has the Highest Population in Africa in 2024?

Nigeria has the highest population in Africa in 2024, with approximately 232,679,478 people. This accounts for about 15.4% of the continent’s total population, showcasing its significant demographic influence. The country’s youthful population and urbanization trends present both opportunities and challenges for development.

How Many Countries Are in Africa?

Africa comprises 54 recognized sovereign countries. This diverse continent is rich in cultures, languages, and resources, contributing to its complex political and economic landscape. The number of countries includes landlocked and coastal nations, each with unique characteristics.

What Are 5 Interesting Facts About Africa?

  1. Africa is home to 54 countries, making it the second-largest continent in terms of area and population. 
  2. It is home to the world’s longest river, the Nile.
  3.  It is home to the largest desert, the Sahara. 
  4. Africa has over 2,000 languages spoken.
  5. Nigeria is the most populated country in Africa.

Which African Country Is Best for Business?

Mauritius is considered the best African country for business, consistently ranking high in ease of doing business due to its favorable tax policies, strong regulatory environment, and political stability. 

Which Country Has the Biggest Economy in Africa?

South Africa has the biggest economy in Africa with a GDP of $1.279 trillion in 2023.

Which Country in Africa Is Rich in Oil?

Nigeria is the leading oil-producing country in Africa, with 73.9 million metric tons of oil produced in 2023.

Oleksandra Mamchii

Working as a academic lead at Best Diplomats.

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