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
- 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
- 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?