Africa, the world’s second-largest and second-most-populous continent, holds the distinction of having over half of its population residing in cities.
This urban concentration contributes significantly to its high population density.
Fortunately, governments across the continent are actively investing in public transportation, infrastructure, and housing to address this growing urbanization trend.
Now, let’s explore which cities in Africa boast the largest populations.
Largest Cities In Africa
Cities in Africa serve as the most industrialized and developed hubs on the continent, attracting a substantial portion of the population seeking employment opportunities and access to essential social amenities.
Consequently, the largest cities in Africa, in terms of population, are witnessing continuous growth.
1. Lagos, Nigeria – 15,388,000
Lagos City holds the distinction of being Africa’s most populous and largest city.
With an estimated population of 15,388,000, this former capital of Nigeria boasts the National Museum Lagos, which showcases cultural artifacts and craftworks.
Additionally, the city plays a pivotal role as the economic backbone of the nation, thanks to its thriving oil industry
2. Kinshasa, Democratic Republic Of The Congo – 7,785,965
Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, stands out for its substantial population.
This major industrial center attracts countless individuals in search of employment opportunities.
Kinshasa’s population is estimated at approximately 7,785,965, and the city features a unique blend of the older, geometrically designed urban areas and sprawling slums that fuel its physical growth.
The city’s economy plays a dominant role in contributing to the nation’s GDP.
3. Cairo, Egypt – 7,734,614
Egypt’s sprawling capital, Cairo, is located on the banks of the Nile River.
At its core, you’ll find Tahrir Square and the expansive Egyptian Museum, which houses a rich collection of antiquities, including royal mummies.
Notably, Cairo ranks as the third-largest city in Africa, with a population of 7,734,614 people. Life in the city revolves around burgeoning commercial ties and industrial production.
4. Kano, Nigeria – 4,103,000
Kano, situated in northern Nigeria, serves as the capital of Kano State. It holds the distinction of being the second-largest city in Nigeria, following Lagos.
Moreover, Kano ranks as the second-most populous city in Western Africa, with a population of 4,103,000 people.
The city’s economic prosperity primarily stems from trade and business, particularly the export of agricultural goods.
5. Largest cities in Africa: Alexandria, Egypt – 3,811,516
Alexandria, a Mediterranean port city in Egypt, is renowned for its historical significance, particularly during the Hellenistic era.
Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, this city was once home to a lighthouse that ranked among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
In addition to its historical heritage, Alexandria stands as one of Africa’s most populous cities, boasting a population of 3,811,516 people.
List of Ten Most Beautiful Cities In Africa
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Marrakesh, Morocco
- Cairo, Egypt
- Essaouira, Morocco
- Chefchaouen, Morocco
- Franschhoek, South Africa
- Swakopmund, Namibia
- Aswan, Egypt
- Djenne, Mali
Ten largest cities in Africa
- Lagos, Nigeria (9 million)
- Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (7.8 million)
- Cairo, Egypt (7.7 million)
- Alexandria, Egypt (6.1 million)
- Kano, Nigeria (3.9 million)
- Ibadan, Nigeria (3.6 million)
- Johannesburg, South Africa (3.4 million)
- Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (3.3 million)
- Abidjan, Ivory Coast (3.2 million)
- Khartoum-Omdurman, Sudan (3 million)
