Population Distribution in Africa

Geography: KS3, topic 17.1.6

Population Distribution in Africa

Africa’s population is approximately 1.2 billion and it is expected to double over the next 25 years.

Densely populated areas

Densely populated areas

  • The most densely populated countries in Africa tend to be:
  • In the very north by the coast of Algeria and Morocco.
  • The countries surrounding the equator.
  • Nigeria is currently the most densely populated country in Africa.
  • The most densely populated areas are close to water supplies, either near to lakes or the coast.
  • Over half of Africa’s population are aged under 20.
Sparsely populated areas

Sparsely populated areas

  • The Sahel region of Africa is very sparsely populated.
  • This is a desert region and its extreme climate makes it difficult to live there.

Test yourself on Population Distribution in Africa

  • Africa’s population is approximately 1.2 billion. How is this figure expected to change over the next 25 years?

  • What is the most densely populated country in Africa?

  • Why are the north and south of Africa the most sparsely populated?

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