The 20 countries ‘getting bigger’ the fastest – all of them are in Africa

The global population currently stands at around 7 billion people, representing the total number of humans on Earth. 

More than half of the world’s population resides in Asia, while about one-quarter lives in Africa, it has been reported. 

Factors such as high fertility rates in Africa and Asia, declining mortality rates, and an increase in the median age of the global population all contribute to population growth. 

Projections indicate that the global population will rise by nearly 4 billion by 2100. This growth is largely driven by improved living conditions and healthier diets, allowing people to live longer lives.

Three of the five most populous countries in the world are located in Asia, which also experiences the highest population growth rates. 

Syria has the fastest-growing population, likely due to a combination of low infant mortality and a growing tourism sector.

The statistic highlights the 20 countries with the highest population growth rates in 2024, reports Statista.com.

South Sudan experienced a population increase of approximately 4.65 percent compared to the previous year, making it the country with the highest population growth rate in 2024.

The country has one of the fastest-growing populations in the world, with a high birth rate contributing significantly to its growth.

However, it also faces challenges such as political instability, internal conflicts, and humanitarian crises, which impact population distribution and development.

The country has one of the highest fertility rates in the world, averaging around 5 to 6 children per woman. This high fertility rate contributes to the rapid population growth and the youthful age structure.

However, decades of conflict, especially the civil war that erupted after independence in 2011, have led to large-scale displacement. Millions have been internally displaced, while others have fled to neighboring countries like Uganda and Kenya.

Despite this, there has been some movement of refugees back into the country in recent years as peace agreements have been signed.

1. South Sudan

2. Niger 

3. Angola

4. Benin

5. Equatorial Guinea

6. Uganda

7. Democratic Republic of Congo

8. Chad

9. Mali

10. Zambia

11. Burundi

12. Guinea

13. Tanzania

14. Cameroon

15. Somalia

16. Sudan

17. Mozambique

18. Guinrea- Bissau

19. Nigeria

20. Senegal