Africa's Demographic Power vs. Economic Underrepresentation
By 2025, Africa will become the second most populous continent in the world, just behind Asia, with approximately 1.5 billion inhabitants, accounting for nearly 19% of the global population, according to the United Nations' "World Population Prospects 2024" report. However, this demographic weight does not translate into a proportional role in global economic production.
According to the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) "World Economic Outlook" report published in April 2025, Africa generates only about 2.8% of global GDP in nominal terms and 4.1% in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP), a more representative indicator of real living standards. In other words, nearly 19 out of 100 Africans collectively produce less than 4 dollars out of every 100 dollars of global wealth. This economic underrepresentation highlights the striking contrast between the continent's demographic strength and its place in global economic exchanges.
A Modest Presence in the Global Economy
Africa occupies a peripheral position in global value chains. Despite being rich in natural resources and having a young and dynamic population, its weight in global economic production remains limited. In 2020, its share was estimated at 3.5% in PPP terms. By 2025, despite a slight increase to 4.1%, the continent remains largely behind its population and potential.
Uneven Growth, Hindered by Vulnerabilities
According to the IMF, sub-Saharan Africa's growth is expected to reach 3.8% in 2025, after 4% in 2024. A rebound to 4.2% is anticipated for 2026. However, this progress remains modest, especially compared to the continent's needs. Performances are heterogeneous: Nigeria, the largest African economy, is expected to grow by 3.0% in 2025 (compared to 3.4% in 2024), while South Africa will reach 1.0%, still hindered by structural tensions.
A Challenge and an Opportunity
In the face of global economic imbalances, Africa represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Its contribution to global economic production remains low, but its growing demographics, strategic resources, and transformative capacity make it a pillar of the future economy.
