South Africa

South Africa ranks sixth with 63.1 million people, yet its population growth of 0.6% is barely above replacement level — slower than the average African nation’s 2.4%. Despite this, it remains the continent’s most industrialized economy, contributing 18% of sub-Saharan Africa’s GDP. A concrete data point: the country generates 230 million tonnes of coal annually, fueling 85% of its electricity. Compared to #5 Tanzania’s rapid expansion, South Africa’s demographic stability allows for more predictable urban planning, though unemployment at 32.9% keeps social pressures high.