The world’s population is expected to grow by over a billion by 2035. According to the United Nations, African metro areas are leading this growth. All the top 10 fastest global cities are located in Africa, and are projected to almost double their populations by 2035. This is largely aided by a large young population in Africa, with over 75% of its population being younger than 35. These population estimates and projections are based on national censuses and specialized population surveys.
Here are the top 10 fastest growing cities in the world and their expected change in population by 2035.
Rank | City | Estimated population (2020) | Projected population (2035) | Projected growth rate |
1. | Bujumbura, Burundi | 1,013,000 | 2,263,000 | 123% |
2. | Zinder, Niger | 489,000 | 1,065,000 | 118% |
3. | Kampala, Uganda | 3,928,000 | 7,004,000 | 112% |
4. | Kabinda, Congo | 466,000 | 979,000 | 110% |
5. | Songea, Tanzania | 353,000 | 740,000 | 110% |
6. | Mwanza, Tanzania | 1,120,000 | 2,267,000 | 102% |
7. | Gwagwalada, Nigeria | 410,000 | 827,000 | 102% |
8. | Bunia, Congo | 679,000 | 1,368,000 | 101% |
9. | Niamey, Niger | 1,292,000 | 2,600,000 | 101% |
10. | Tete, Mozambique | 371,000 | 744,000 | 101% |
