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By the mid-2030s, approximately 400 million people, or about 21% of Africa's population, are projected to reside in the continent's top ten metropolitan economies, according to a report from the Economist Intelligence Unit.
These cities, which include both sprawling megacities and smaller capitals like Libreville, Cotonou, and Port Louis, are expected to contribute significantly to Africa's economic landscape.
Major urban centers such as Cairo, Johannesburg, and Lagos are anticipated to continue their trend of GDP growth, maintaining their positions among the top 100 cities in Africa by 2035.
The combined nominal GDP of these cities was $1.4 trillion in 2023 and is projected to exceed $5 trillion by 2035, reflecting a robust annual growth rate of approximately 6%.
By that time, the economies of the top 20 cities are expected to account for around 70% of Africa's GDP, based on 2020 prices and exchange rates.
These cities are characterized by dynamic consumer markets, advanced commercial networks, and strong industrial sectors, positioning them as vital hubs for trade and commerce.
However, this growth is not without its challenges. Urban areas will face significant issues, including congestion, informal housing, high unemployment rates, inadequate public services, and the looming threat of climate change.
Addressing these challenges will be crucial for unlocking the full economic potential of Africa's rapidly evolving urban landscape.
The top ten African cities projected to have the highest GDP by 2035 are:
1. Greater Cairo
2. Greater Johannesburg
3. Lagos
4. Cape Town
5. Alexandria
6. Addis Ababa
7. Casablanca
8. Dar es Salaam
9. Abidjan
10. Durban
Despite the promising economic outlook, the continent is generally classified as low-middle income, with significant disparities in wealth distribution.
Countries such as Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria play essential roles as trading hubs, contributing to regional economic integration and development.
