World Bank: Luanda to Surpass Lagos in Population Growth

According to a World Bank report titled "Sub-Saharan Africa’s Urban Awakening: Catalyzing Economic Growth and Job Creation," Luanda is projected to overtake Lagos as Sub-Saharan Africa's most populous city by 2050. Luanda's population is expected to grow by 78%, from 11.4 million in 2025 to 20.3 million by 2050.

In contrast, Lagos's population is projected to increase from 12.8 million to 16.2 million, a growth of over 25%. This indicates that Luanda will add 8.9 million residents, while Lagos will add 3.4 million.

The report underscores the necessity for governments to enhance infrastructure, housing, transport, and employment opportunities in the face of rapid urbanization. It also states that Sub-Saharan Africa's urban population grew from 170.2 million in 1975 to 912.6 million in 2025.

Furthermore, the region requires approximately 15 million new jobs annually to accommodate its expanding workforce, emphasizing the link between urban growth and job creation.