South Africa’s population growth rate has stalled at 1.2%, with the total headcount reaching 63.52 million in the year to June, according to new estimates.
The stagnation in the growth rate masks significant internal demographic shifts, as the economic powerhouse of Gauteng continues to draw migrants from other provinces, now accounting for 16.3 million residents, or roughly 25% of the national total.
The concentration of population growth in Gauteng highlights the uneven nature of South Africa’s demographic expansion.
While the national growth rate treads water, the capital province faces intensifying pressure on housing, transport, and public services.
This internal migration pattern underscores the disparity between the economic hub and other regions, where population growth is slower or stagnant.
The demographic data arrives as South Africa’s private sector shows signs of stabilization.