According to the United Nations the global population is projected to reach 9 billion by 2037, with Asia and Africa at the forefront of this increase.

This spiralling rise in the Earth’s population is set to bring significant demographic changes to these regions. Notably, Nigeria’s largest city, Lagos, is expected to emerge as the world’s top megacity (a city exceeding 10 million inhabitants) by the end of the century, highlighting the rapid urbanisation within the African continent.

The United Nations has released figures highlighting the top 10 countries expected to drive global overpopulation to the 9 billion mark and beyond.

Together, these 10 countries are expected to contribute 49% of the world’s human population growth by 2037.

Furthermore, it’s anticipated that Earth’s population will continue rising until it peaks in the 2080s, potentially surpassing 10 billion.

Top 10 countries driving global population to 9 billion by 2037

1. India: Projected growth – 147 million
Already the most populous country, India will add a population equivalent to Russia in just over a decade.

2. Nigeria: Projected growth – 65 million
As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria’s expanding population will have major implications for its development and resources.

3. Pakistan: Projected growth – 59 million
Pakistan’s population growth will significantly influence its economy and social structures.

4. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC): Projected growth – 51 million
The DRC will see notable growth, impacting its natural resource management and economic opportunities.

5. Ethiopia: Projected growth – 46 million
Ethiopia’s young population will present both challenges and opportunities for economic expansion.

6. Tanzania: Projected growth – 28 million
Tanzania’s growth will require a focus on urban planning and sustainable development strategies.

7. Bangladesh: Projected growth – 25 million
With a dense population, Bangladesh must tackle resource management issues as it grows.

8. Indonesia: Projected growth – 25 million
Indonesia’s demographic changes will influence its economy and role in Southeast Asia.

9. Egypt: Projected growth – 23 million
Egypt will face the task of managing its young population’s needs while ensuring resource sustainability.

10. United States: Projected growth – 21 million
The U.S. will continue to experience growth, which will shape its economic policies and social dynamics.

Submitted by Friends of Retha


The Message is the ground-breaking debut novel by Yan Vana, a thought-provoking and critically acclaimed book that will change the way you think about overpopulation and the near future of earth.