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Africa is expected to record some of the world’s fastest population growth over the next few decades.
According to World Population Review projections, high birth rates and rising life expectancy will add tens of millions of people to several African nations by 2050.
Below are the African countries projected to record the largest population increases by mid-century.
6. Angola
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2026 population: 40.2 million
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2050 population: 74.3 million
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Increase: 34.1 million
Angola’s population is expected to nearly double by 2050. Rapid growth will increase pressure on urban areas, especially the capital, Luanda.
Angola is rich in oil and diamonds, with the economy still heavily dependent on energy exports, although mining and agriculture are expanding.
5. Egypt
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2026 population: 120.1 million
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2050 population: 161.6 million
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Increase: 41.5 million
Egypt is projected to add more than 41 million people by 2050. Population growth remains a major policy challenge due to limited arable land along the Nile River.
The country is known for its ancient monuments and the Suez Canal, which is a key source of revenue. Cairo is the capital and largest city.
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2026 population: 72.6 million
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2050 population: 129.6 million
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Increase: 57.1 million
Tanzania’s population is projected to grow by more than 57 million people by 2050. This growth is expected to reshape demand for housing, food, and public services.
The country is known for Mount Kilimanjaro and wildlife reserves such as the Serengeti. Its economy is supported by tourism, agriculture, and mining. Dodoma is the capital city.
3. Ethiopia
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2026 population: 138.9 million
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2050 population: 225.0 million
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Increase: 86.1 million
Ethiopia is expected to add over 86 million people by 2050, making it one of the fastest-growing populations globally.
The country is known for its ancient Christian heritage and diverse geography. Ethiopia’s economy is largely agricultural, though manufacturing and industrial activity have expanded in recent years. Addis Ababa is the capital.
2. Democratic Republic of the Congo
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2026 population: 116.5 million
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2050 population: 218.2 million
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Increase: 101.8 million
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is projected to more than double its population growth by 2050. This growth will place heavy pressure on infrastructure, healthcare, and education systems.
The country has vast natural resources, including minerals critical to global technology supply chains. Kinshasa is its capital and one of Africa’s largest cities.
1. Nigeria
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2026 population: 242.4 million
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2050 population: 359.2 million
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Increase: 116.8 million
Nigeria is expected to record the largest population increase in Africa by 2050. Already the most populous country on the continent, Nigeria’s population growth alone will exceed that of many African countries.
The country is known for its cultural diversity and large oil reserves. While oil remains central to the economy, Nigeria also has a fast-growing technology and services sector. Abuja is the capital city.
